
Mycangia
Mycangia are specialized structures found in certain insects, such as beetles, that facilitate the transport and storage of symbiotic fungi. These fungi are vital for the insects' survival, often aiding in tree decay or nutrient processing. The mycangium acts like a tiny storage compartment, allowing the insect to carry and introduce the fungi into new environments or host plants. This close relationship benefits both, as the fungi gain dispersal, and the insects gain assistance in digesting wood or other materials. Essentially, mycangia are biological "silos" that enable insects to efficiently manage their fungal partners.