Typhaea stercorea
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Typhaea stercorea | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Coleoptera |
| Suborder: | Polyphaga |
| Infraorder: | Cucujiformia |
| Family: | Mycetophagidae |
| Genus: | Typhaea |
| Species: | T. stercorea |
| Binomial name | |
| Typhaea stercorea | |
Typhaea stercorea is a cosmopolitan species of beetle of the family Mycetophagidae, known by the common name hairy fungus beetle.
Adult T. stercorea are 2.2–3.0 mm long, oval, brown, flattened, and have hairy elytra with parallel lines of fine hairs.[1] Antennae are 3 segmented and the head is readily visible from above, distinguishing the hairy fungus beetle from some similar species.[1] At 25 °C and 80-90 RH, development from egg to adult takes 21 to 33 days.[1] The larvae are able to move easily and the adults can run fast and fly well.[1] It is a generalist feeder associated with moldy or damp conditions. Its presence in stored grain indicates poor storage conditions. It is a minor pest of freshly harvested or slightly damp grain.[1] Damage is not distinctive and is caused by both adult and larval feeding.[2] Stored products consumed include: moldy cereals, tobacco, peanuts, and hay. The species also eats fungi that grow on damp food.[3] This species has been found in grain storages dating back to the Iron Age.[4]