Lymexylon

Lymexylon is a genus of beetles belonging to the family Lymexylidae. These beetles are commonly known as timber beetles or ship-timber beetles. They are characterized by their elongated bodies and soft elytra, which do not fully cover the abdomen. Lymexylon species are wood-boring insects, and their larvae are mycophagous, meaning they feed on fungi. The larvae develop within the wood, creating galleries where they consume a symbiotic fungus cultivated by the adults. This fungal symbiosis is a crucial aspect of their life cycle and nutrition.

Adult Lymexylon beetles are relatively short-lived and their primary role is reproduction. They are often found in or near decaying or dead wood, particularly in forests and woodlands. The larvae, however, spend a significant amount of time developing within the wood, which can take several years depending on the species and environmental conditions. While some species may be considered pests in timber industries due to the damage their larvae can inflict, they are not generally considered a threat to healthy, living trees. Their distribution is widespread across various continents, with different species inhabiting temperate and tropical regions. The classification and study of Lymexylon contribute to our understanding of insect-fungus interactions and forest ecology.