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.
Keywords: Leiodes cinnamomea; Tuber aestivum; biology; larva; morphology; mosaic strategy; pseudomycangia; subterranean mycophagy.