Image: Hide beetle larvae
Description
Hide beetle larvae, Dermestes ater
- Photographer:
- C Bento
- Rights:
- © Australian Museum
Additional information
Hide beetles - Family Dermestidae
Hide beetles are some of the most important animals present in the final stages of decomposition of a carcass. The adults and larvae are not predaceous and feed on the dried skin, tendons and bone left by the fly larvae. Hide beetles are the only beetle with the enzymes necessary for breaking down keratin, a protein component of hair.
Dermestes cadaverinus and Dermestes maculatus are two species occurring in Australia that are particularly common in summer. Both adults and larvae feed on dried skin ligaments and bone as well as dead insects. The larvae of both species are hairy.
Would you like to add a comment?
Sign up to add comments and find out more about the other benefits you can enjoy.
Would you like to add a tag?
Sign up to add tags and find out more about the other benefits you can enjoy.
Support us
Help us continue to provide quality research, education, community programs and exhibitions.
Online Shop
Featuring a selection of products relating to the collections.
Australian Museum Members
Join today to come to the Museum for free and enjoy many other benefits.
AMBS
Australian Museum Business Services - Ecological, archaeological and heritage consulting.
Museum as a Venue
We have many unique venues ideal for dinner, cocktails, weddings and conferences.