Carpet Beetles

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dermestidae: //dɛrˈmɛstɪˌdiː//

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Summary

Dermestidae, commonly known as dermestid or carpet beetles, encompass a diverse family of small, scavenging beetles that are integral to decomposition and nutrient cycling. They can be significant pests in households and stored products, yet are also utilized in taxidermy and forensic studies.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Dermestidae are generally small beetles (1–12 mm long), rounded to oval in shape, with hairy or scaly elytra that may form distinctive and colorful patterns. Larval Dermestidae range from 5 to 15 mm long and are usually covered in tufts of long, dense hairs (setae). Some setae in the Megatominae and Trinodes are hastisetae with spear-like heads. Pupae of Dermestinae and Attageninae are covered in gin-traps for protection.

Identification Tips

Look for small, rounded beetles with distinctive patterns on their elytra. Adults usually have clubbed antennae that fit into a groove under the thorax. Larvae are known as 'woolly bears' or 'buffalo moths' and are carrot-shaped with heavy setae, particularly on the posterior end.

Habitat

Dermestidae are cosmopolitan and can be found in various habitats including homes, stored food, animal carcasses, and nests of mammals, birds, bees, and wasps.

Distribution

Globally widespread, with over 1,800 species described and many more undescribed; they are found in North America and around the world.

Diet

Dermestidae are scavengers feeding on dry organic materials, such as skins, hair, pollen, and natural fibers. Some species are predators of insect larvae and utilize animal carcasses.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius) can last around 40 to 50 days, while the hide beetle (Dermestes maculatus) has a life cycle of 60 to 70 days. Larvae typically undergo several instars before pupating.

Reproduction

Generally, each female can lay a substantial number of eggs (e.g., 135 for larder beetles, up to 800 for hide beetles) near a food source; eggs usually hatch within 8 to 15 days.

Ecosystem Role

Dermestidae play a role in decomposition and nutrient cycling by breaking down animal remains and organic materials.

Economic Impact

Some species are pests that damage stored food, natural fibers, and products containing keratin. They are known to infest items like wool, silk, and stored grains, causing economic losses.

Cultural Significance

Dermestidae are used in taxidermy and by natural history museums to clean animal skeletons, indicating their role in scientific study and preservation.

Health Concerns

Dermestid hastisetae can cause allergic reactions or health issues such as rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma, nausea, and dermatitis when inhaled or when contaminated food is consumed.

Collecting Methods

• Traps using bait or pheromones
• Hand collecting on carcasses or infested items

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Alcohol preservation
• Drying

Evolution

The oldest known unambiguous member of the family is Paradermestes from the Middle Jurassic, with possible ancestors from the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic. Evolution likely involved a shift from mycophagy to saprophagy in most lineages.

Similar Taxa

• Bostrichidae
• Anobiidae
• Meloidae

Misconceptions

Dermestidae are often confused with common household pests, but not all species are harmful; some are essential for decomposition.

Tags

• beetles
• Carpet Beetles
• Dermestidae
• scavengers
• pests