Bug Identifier
Darkling beetle
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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.