Hide Beetle

Dermestes maculatus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Bostrichoidea
Family: Dermestidae
Genus: Dermestes
Species: maculatus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dermestes maculatus: /dɛrˈmɛstɛs mæˈkjʊlətəs/

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

Images

Dermestes maculatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Dermesteselytren by Tikakan. Used under a Public domain license.

2011-08-12-UAM100037016-Dermestes maculatus-label1a by University of Alaska Museum. Used under a CC0 license.

Dermestesdrueseventral3tage by Tikakan. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Dermestes maculatus, commonly referred to as the Hide Beetle, is a species of carrion beetle widely distributed across the globe. Notable for its role in forensic science for estimating time since death, it also serves an important ecological function by consuming decomposing matter.

Physical Characteristics

Adult beetle is 5.5–10 mm long, black with a band of white hairs on either side of the pronotum. Antennae end in 3-segmented clubs. Apices of elytra are serrated with small projecting spines. Underside of abdomen is mostly white with black spots. Larvae are covered in setae, yellowish-brown on the bottom; dorsal surface is dark brown with a yellow line in the middle. Pupae are oval-shaped and lack setae.

Identification Tips

Look for the band of white hairs on the pronotum and the serrated apices of the elytra.

Habitat

Found in houses, warehouses, poultry houses, and outdoors on carrion and animal skins.

Distribution

Cosmopolitan; present on all continents except Antarctica. Widespread in North America, including every US state and Canada.

Diet

Feeds on dead insects and various animal-origin materials such as feathers, fur, bone, cheese, and dried fish.

Life Cycle

Larvae develop for five to seven weeks, with adults living for four to six months.

Reproduction

Larvae pupate, often searching for a suitable non-food site like wood to construct a pupation chamber.

Ecosystem Role

Keeps ecosystems clean by feeding on carrion and decomposing animal matter.

Economic Impact

Pests of the silk industry in Italy and India; causes significant damage to stored food products.

Cultural Significance

Used in museums and universities for cleaning skeletons and preparing animal remains for display; has historical significance in forensic entomology.

Health Concerns

Can cause papular urticaria due to irritant effect of larval setae or allergic reactions; can parasitically feed on live animals such as turkeys.