Dermestid beetle, SEM

Dermestid beetle. Scanning electron micrograph of a dermestid beetle. Dermestidae are a family of Coleoptera that are commonly referred to as skin beetles. Other common names include larder beetle, hide or leather beetles, and carpet beetles. Adult dermestids commonly eat pollen and feed on various flowers. The larvae are the damaging life stage. 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. These beetles are significant in forensic entomology. Some species are pests and can cause extensive damage to natural fibers in homes and businesses. They are used in taxidermy and by natural history museums to clean animal skeletons. Magnification: x 40 @ 10cm wide.