Pleasing Fungus Beetles in the genus Megalodacne are brightly colored beetles that live on and feed upon fungi growing on decaying wood.
Taxonomy and Classification
- Order: Coleoptera
- Family: Erotylidae
- Genus: Megalodacne
Physical Description
- Length: 10–20 mm
- Color: Black with bright orange or yellow bands
- Body Shape: Oval and glossy
Distribution and Habitat
- North America
- Forests with abundant decaying wood
- Fungi-covered logs
Behavior and Ecology
Both larvae and adults feed on bracket fungi growing on fallen trees.
Management and Prevention
This beetle is beneficial and does not require control.
Conservation and Research
Fungus beetles play an important role in forest decomposition cycles.