Attagenus schaefferi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Attagenus schaefferi |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Attagenus
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| Species: |
schaefferi
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Attagenus schaefferi is a type of small beetle often called a carpet beetle. It belongs to the family Dermestidae, which includes many kinds of beetles known for eating dry animal and plant materials. This particular beetle is found in North America.
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About Carpet Beetles
Carpet beetles are tiny insects, usually just a few millimeters long. They get their name because they often live in homes and can eat natural fibers like wool, silk, and leather found in carpets, clothes, and furniture. However, they are also found in nature, where they play a role in breaking down dead plants and animals.
What Does Attagenus schaefferi Look Like?
Like other carpet beetles, Attagenus schaefferi is quite small. It has a hard outer shell, which is typical for beetles. Its body is usually oval-shaped. These beetles can be different colors, often dark, which helps them blend in with their surroundings.
Where Do They Live?
Attagenus schaefferi beetles are native to North America. In nature, you might find them in places where they can find food, such as animal nests, dead insects, or dried plants. Sometimes, they can also find their way into human homes, looking for food sources like pet hair, lint, or natural fabrics.
What Do They Eat?
These beetles are scavengers, meaning they eat things that are already dead or decaying. In the wild, they might feed on dried animal remains, feathers, or even old spider webs. When they are in homes, they can eat things like wool, fur, silk, and even dried food products. It's usually their larvae (the young, worm-like stage) that do most of the eating.
The Life Cycle of a Carpet Beetle
Like all beetles, Attagenus schaefferi goes through a complete metamorphosis. This means it has four main life stages:
- Egg: The female beetle lays tiny eggs in places where the larvae will have food.
- Larva: After hatching, the larvae are small, hairy, and worm-like. This is the stage that eats the most and causes any damage to fabrics. They grow by shedding their skin several times.
- Pupa: Once the larva is fully grown, it turns into a pupa. During this stage, it doesn't eat and transforms into an adult beetle.
- Adult: The adult beetle emerges from the pupa. Its main job is to mate and lay eggs, continuing the life cycle. Adult carpet beetles often feed on pollen and nectar from flowers outdoors.
Different Kinds of Attagenus schaefferi
Within the species Attagenus schaefferi, scientists have identified two main types, called subspecies. These are slightly different groups within the same species:
- Attagenus schaefferi hypar
- Attagenus schaefferi spurcus
These subspecies were identified by different scientists at different times, based on small differences in their appearance or where they are found.
See also
In Spanish: Attagenus schaefferi para niños
