Dermestidae
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 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.