Common Name(s): Sap Beetle
Pest Location
Vegetable and FruitDescription
Sap beetles are minute to small. They are broad, flattened with large head and eyes. The antennae are short and the last three segments are always clubbed. Several species have short elytra leaving the last few segments of the abdomen exposed. Many are brightly colored with red or yellow spots or bands on black elytra. Others are more dull brown. Larvae are elongate, usually white, with short setae and spines.
Adults of some species can be found abundantly in flowers especially cactus. They are attracted to decaying vegetable matter, fermenting fruit, and sap. Some are found under bark. Most are generally saprophagous. Others are pests of dried fruit.
Life Cycle
Sap beetles pupate in the soil. They spend the winter as adults.