Larder Beetle vs North American Spongillafly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Larder Beetle North American Spongillafly
Scientific Name Dermestes lardarius Climacia areolaris
Order Coleoptera Neuroptera
Family Dermestidae Sisyridae
Size 6-10 mm 6-10 mm wingspan
Habitat Gardens Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Worldwide Eastern North America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Larder Beetle

A dark brown beetle with a pale band across its elytra, commonly found in stored food products. Larvae are covered in bristly hairs.

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Did You Know?

Forensic entomologists use its presence on remains to help estimate time of death.

North American Spongillafly

A small spongillafly found across eastern North America near fresh water. Its larvae feed on freshwater sponges attached to submerged rocks and logs.

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Did You Know?

Larvae pupate on land inside double-walled cocoons after crawling out of the water.