Trogoderma

Trogoderma

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Trogoderma: /ˌtroʊɡəˈdɜːrmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Classification of the Dermestidae (larder, hide, and carpet beetles) based on larval characters - with a key to the North American genera (1943) (20469206429) by Rees, Bryant E. (Bryant Eugene), 1912-. Used under a No restrictions license.
NHMUK014092586 Trogoderma variabile Ballion whole dorsal X 2.0 by NHM Beetles and Bugs. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
CSIRO ScienceImage 2766 Warehouse beetle Trogoderma variabile by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
CSIRO ScienceImage 2598 Warehouse beetle larvae Trogoderma variabile by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
Trogoderma variabile by Simon Hinkley & Ken Walker, Museum Victoria. Used under a CC BY 3.0 au license.
CASTYPE8218 Trogoderma sternale maderae Beal, 1954 Label by Rachel Diaz-Bastin, California Academy of Sciences. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Summary

Trogoderma is a diverse genus of skin beetles with both pest and ecological roles. It is notable for its species that feed on animal and plant byproducts, with some serving as predators in their ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Small to medium-sized beetles; typically oval and flattened bodies; may have various colors including brown, black, or patterned.

Identification Tips

Member of the Dermestidae family, identified by their distinctive elongated bodies and clubbed antennae; some species exhibit unique patterns that may aid in identification.

Habitat

Found in various environments, including homes, warehouses, and natural settings depending on the species; often associated with stored products or decomposing organic material.

Distribution

Widely distributed across North America and globally; about 15 species identified in the region, with over 135 known species worldwide.

Diet

Some species are known to feed on animal products such as dried meat, museum specimens, fur, and feathers, as well as plants; a few species may prey on wasp/bee larvae or spider eggs.

Life Cycle

Undergo complete metamorphosis; life cycle stages include egg, larva, pupa, and adult; larvae are usually the most destructive stage due to their feeding habits.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs near food sources, and the larvae hatch and start feeding on available organic material.

Predators

Predators may include other insects that prey on larvae or adults; specific predators not mentioned.

Ecosystem Role

Important decomposers in their environments as they help break down organic matter; some species can impact stored product industries as pests.

Economic Impact

Certain species can cause economic damage by infesting and spoiling stored animal and plant products.

Health Concerns

Some species are known pests but are generally not harmful to human health; may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to skin fragments and feces.

Collecting Methods

  • Sweep netting
  • Light trapping
  • Hand collecting near infested materials

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinning for specimen collection
  • Freezing to eliminate pests

Evolution

Trogoderma has evolved to fill a unique niche as both decomposers and, in some cases, as predators, showcasing diverse feeding strategies.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other pest beetles but differ in feeding habits and life cycle; some people may believe all species cause harm.

Tags

  • dermestidae
  • beetles
  • pests
  • decomposers
  • Trogoderma