North American Snow Scorpionfly vs Black Carpet Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute North American Snow Scorpionfly Black Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name Boreus californicus Attagenus unicolor
Order Mecoptera Coleoptera
Family Boreidae Dermestidae
Size 3-5 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Mountains Indoors
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

North American Snow Scorpionfly

A small dark wingless scorpionfly found in mountainous regions of western North America. It is active during winter months on moss-covered substrates.

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Did You Know?

These insects produce antifreeze compounds in their hemolymph that allow them to remain active at subzero temperatures.

Black Carpet Beetle

A small, oval, dark brown to black beetle that is a major pest of textiles and natural fibers. Larvae are covered in long brown hairs.

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Did You Know?

Larvae can survive up to a year without feeding if conditions are dry.