Larval Morphological Adaptations of Leiodes cinnamomea (Panzer, 1793) (Coleoptera: Leiodidae: Leiodinae)—Obligatory Feeder of Tuber Species

Abstract

Detailed redescription of morphology for three larval instars of truffle-feeder Leiodes cinnamomea, documented on scanning micrographs and illustrations, is provided. Systematic context, observations on biology and unique characteristics of larvae of the only well-described representative of Leiodini are discussed. Exoskeletal invaginations (pseudomycangia), granulation on the head and the median longitudinal row of sclerotized plates on tergites VII–IX—the unique structures among leiodid larvae—were confirmed, described and documented. A mosaic strategy for beetles living in ephemeral and in solid fungi is discussed.