The smooth spider beetle is a member of the family of spider beetles. It has a cosmopolitan distribution and is seen in various parts of the world.
Size: 2.1 -2.7 mm
Color: They are black or dark reddish-brown.
Other Characteristic Features: They have long legs, fused wing covers, and a shiny, smooth, round abdomen. Because of their sturdy body structure, these beetles can survive in environments without water for up to three months.
The larva has a cream C-shaped body with a light brown head, measuring 3.5 – 4 mm.
After fully maturing, they begin to pupate within a silky cocoon.
Around 50-100 eggs are laid at a time by a female.
| Lifespan | 1 -1.5 years |
| Distribution | America (North, Central, and South), Europe, North Asia, and the Caribbean |
| Habitat | Dark areas such as, flour mills and houses; also stores, warehouses, and hospitals. |
| Seasons active | Year-round |
| Diet of adults | Stored seeds, wheat, bran, stale bread, rat droppings, cereals, woolens, towels, leather, paste, and opium cake |
The damage caused by these beetles can be identified from holes in wood caused by the larvae, the silk left behind by their cocoons, and infested foodstuffs.
Image Source: cdn.britannica.com, i.pinimg.com, jcehrlich.com
The smooth spider beetle is a member of the family of spider beetles. It has a cosmopolitan distribution and is seen in various parts of the world.
Size: 2.1 -2.7 mm
Color: They are black or dark reddish-brown.
Other Characteristic Features: They have long legs, fused wing covers, and a shiny, smooth, round abdomen. Because of their sturdy body structure, these beetles can survive in environments without water for up to three months.
The larva has a cream C-shaped body with a light brown head, measuring 3.5 – 4 mm.
After fully maturing, they begin to pupate within a silky cocoon.
Around 50-100 eggs are laid at a time by a female.
| Lifespan | 1 -1.5 years |
| Distribution | America (North, Central, and South), Europe, North Asia, and the Caribbean |
| Habitat | Dark areas such as, flour mills and houses; also stores, warehouses, and hospitals. |
| Seasons active | Year-round |
| Diet of adults | Stored seeds, wheat, bran, stale bread, rat droppings, cereals, woolens, towels, leather, paste, and opium cake |
The damage caused by these beetles can be identified from holes in wood caused by the larvae, the silk left behind by their cocoons, and infested foodstuffs.
Image Source: cdn.britannica.com, i.pinimg.com, jcehrlich.com
