About Mycetophagus punctatus Say, 1826
Commonly called the hairy fungus beetle, Mycetophagus punctatus Say, 1826 has a body length of 4.0 to 5.5 cm. Its black elytra have red-yellow markings. Its antennae are red-brown, turning black closer to the tips. Short hairs cover the beetle's entire body. In terms of ecology and behavior, hairy fungus beetles usually reproduce and spread in late summer to early fall. They live in moist environments like decaying plant material, cellars, and houses, most often around bathtubs or sinks. They are attracted to damp cereals, herbs, spices, cheese, fruit preserves, and fibers including carpet, as well as to light sources. This species does not cause any damage, does not bite humans, and does not spread any diseases. Applying fungicides is known to reduce their populations.
