From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
Dermestid Beetles
Dermestidae are a family of Coleoptera that are commonly referred to as skin beetles.
Other common names include larder beetle, hide or leather beetles, carpet beetles, and
khapra beetles. There are approximately 500 to 700 species worldwide. They can range in
size from 1–12 mm. Key characteristics for adults are round oval shaped bodies covered
in scales or setae. The (usually) clubbed antennae fit into deep grooves. The hind
femora also fit into recesses of the coxa. Larvae are scarabaeiform and also have setae.
Dermestids have a variety of habits; most genera are scavengers that feed on dry animal
or plant material such as skin or pollen, animal hair, feathers, dead insects and natural
fibers. Members of Dermestes are found in animal carcasses, while others may be found in
mammal, bird, bee, or wasp nests. Thaumaglossa only lives in the egg cases of mantids,
while Trogoderma species are pests of grain.
These beetles are significant in forensic entomology. Some species are known to be
associated with decaying carcasses which help with criminal investigations. Some
species are pests (urban entomology) and can cause extensive damage to natural
fibers in homes and businesses.
They are used in taxidermy and natural history museums to clean animal skeletons.
Some dermestid species, commonly called "bow bugs," infest violin cases, feeding
on the bow hair.
