Uleiota planatus

Length 4.5-5.5mm. A conspicuously flat beetle, matt black to brown in colour, with antennae as long as the body.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Beneath the bark of recently dead broadleaf and coniferous trees.

All year.

The larvae are believed to feed on fungi beneath the bark of newly dead trees. The adults may be carnivorous.

Although it has been classed as nationally scarce, this species is now an established introduction that is expanding its range.

Uncommon or rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland, but probably increasing. There were 2 records for VC55 up until 2020.