Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity





back to order Coleoptera		 insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: saprophagous
Immatures: saprophagous

Size: 2 to 35 mm
Flight :

North American
Species: 1000

Coleoptera Tenebrionidae
Darkling beetles

Front Wings: hardened
Hind Wings: membranous
Mouthparts: chewing
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: clubbed
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified

Special Characteristics: Most of the Tenebrionidae are dull brown or black and they have distinct lines or ridges on the elytra.

Comments: Most tenebrionids live on dead or decaying plant and animal matter. Others are found in fungi or under bark of decaying trees. Some species are pest of stored products, especially cereals.

Species:
Bolitotherus cornutus (Panzer)

Common Name:
Horned fungus beetle

Feeding Habits: The larvae and the adults feed on fungus on dying and dead tree trunks.

Distribution:
Eastern Canada

Comments:
This species is common on old decaying stumps. It measures between 7.5 and 12 mm long.