Review of the Natural History of the Handsome Fungus Beetles (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea: Endomychidae)

Authors

F. W. Shockley, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
K. W. Tomaszewska, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wilcza 64, 00-679 Warsaw, Poland
J. V. McHugh, University of Georgia, Athens, GA

Date of this Version

4-2009

Comments

Published in INSECTA MUNDI: A Journal of World Insect Systematics, # 0072 (2009). Published by the Center for Systematic Entomology, Inc., Gainesville, FL. http://www.centerforsystematicentomology.org/ Copyright © 2009 by the authors.

Abstract

The literature pertaining to natural history of Endomychidae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea) is reviewed. One hundred fungal host records are provided for 32 endomychid species. Twenty-three records of endomychid yeast endosymbionts are compiled. Summaries are also presented for feeding preferences, interactions with natural enemies, non-lethal symbiotic relationships, and pest activity within the family. Unusual endomychid behaviors and habitats are reviewed, with particular attention to gregariousness and defensive strategies within Endomychidae.