The family Mycetophagidae comprises small to medium-sized beetles that are inextricably linked to forest ecosystems, where they play a key role in the decomposition of organic matter. Both adults and larvae usually feed on the mycelium or spore-bearing tissues of stalked fungi, primarily polypores, bracket fungi and other wood-decaying fungi growing on dead tree trunks. Some species can also be found under bark, in decaying wood or in mouldy plant debris. Members of this family are characterised by an oval, slightly flattened body covered in fine hairs and a typical variegated colouration with orange or yellow spots on a dark background of the elytra. In the Czech Republic, this group serves as a sensitive indicator of well-preserved, biologically rich forest stands with an abundance of deadwood. Some species have even adapted to man-made environments, such as grain stores, where they feed on mould growing on stored produce.

Number of Species:

Family Card

Berginus tamarisci

 

Litargus balteatus

 

Litargus connexus

 

Mycetophagus multipunctatus

 

Mycetophagus ater

 

Mycetophagus quadripustulatus

 

Mycetophagus fulvicollis

 

Mycetophagus quadriguttatus

 

Mycetophagus populi

 

Mycetophagus atomarius

 

Mycetophagus decempunctatus

 

Mycetophagus piceus

 

Pseudotriphyllus suturalis

 

Triphyllus bicolor

 

Typhaea haagi

 

Typhaea stercorea