Mammal-associated
Guides
Platypsyllus
beaver beetle
Platypsyllus is a monotypic genus of beetles in the family Leiodidae, subfamily Platypsyllinae. The sole species, P. castoris, is a highly specialized commensal associated exclusively with beavers. It exhibits extreme morphological adaptations including dorsoventral flattening, eyelessness, flightlessness, and modified mouthparts forming a sucking pump—features that distinguish it from all other beetles and reflect its unique lifestyle in the dense fur of its host.