
Community identification
Darkling beetle
Tenebrionidae, genus and species undetermined
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera; Tenebrionidae
- Size
- Roughly 2–30 mm as an adult; this specimen appears to be about 10–15 mm.
Natural Habitat
Found in many terrestrial habitats, including dry soils, leaf litter, under bark, and stored grain; exact habitat depends on species.
Diet & Feeding
Varies by species; many feed on decaying plant material, fungi, seeds, or stored food, while some prey on small invertebrates.
Behavior Patterns
Usually ground-dwelling and most active at night. Adults have hardened wing covers; larvae are commonly called mealworms or false wireworms.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to people and useful as decomposers, though some species damage stored foods or crops.