Silken fungus beetles
Cryptophagus species

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Cryptophagidae
Acronym: CRY

Ecology

The family Cryptophagidae is a group of beetles that feed on moulds. They are referred to as silken fungus beetles. The family contains about 600 species with 80 species estimated to occur in Canada. In Canada, they are widely distributed. In general, silken fungus beetles feed on moulds, fungal spores and decaying vegetation. A number of species are found associated with stored products. In Canada, they have been found in granaries, warehouses, houses, cellars and mills. They infest cereal grains, wheat, barely, oats, bran, rice, flour, bread, dried fruit and moldy plant and animal materials.

Damage

Both the adult and larva feed on fungal spores and hyphae and do not cause direct damage to the commodity. The presence of silken fungus beetles indicates poor storage conditions. The adults are capable of transmitting fungal spores and may promote excessive mold growth in storage.

Life history

The adult silken fungus beetle is small, 2 – 3 mm long. It is oval-shaped and flat. Typically, the adult of most species is brown. Depending on the species, the adult may be reddish-brown, dark brown or have yellowish or reddish markings on the elytra. The adult of many species is covered in hairs. The adult has clubbed antennae. The shape of the thorax may be diagnostic of the species, and may be angled or sculptured with small projections or serrations. The adult is long-lived and can fly.

The female lays eggs singly among or on top of fungal hyphae.

The larva is cylindrical and slightly flattened. It is yellow-brown in colour. It ranges in size from 2 - 3 mm long. The larva is active. It has a visible head and thoracic legs. Two upturned urogomphi, or tail-like appendages, are located on the last abdominal segment. Development time requires 30 days. The larva pupates in the food source.

Control

Controlling insect infestations

Images

Adult: Silken fungus beetle – Atomoria ephippiata

Adult: Silken fungus beetle – Cryptophagus varus