Question

Saula ferruginosa (Gerst)- pest of Vanilla belong to which family:

• A. Dryophthoridae
• B. Endomychidae
• C. Noctuidae
• D. Pentatomidae

Hint:

Handsome fungus beetles (Endomychidae) are mostly associated with fungi, but certain species like Saula ferruginosa have adapted to feed on high-value crop blossoms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Various minor and major beetle pests affect cash crops such as vanilla, and their correct family classification is essential for taxonomic identification.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Saula ferruginosa (commonly known as the yellow beetle or handsome fungus beetle) is a minor pest of Vanilla in tropical regions.
It feeds on pollen, delicate floral organs, and young shoots.
This beetle genus belongs to the family Endomychidae (Order: Coleoptera), which are commonly referred to as handsome fungus beetles.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The beetle belongs to the family Endomychidae, which is option (B).