A sap beetle, Carpophilus sp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). Photo by Drees.
Common Name: Sap beetle
Scientific Name: Carpophilus sp.
Order: Coleoptera
Description: 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.
Life Cycle: Sap beetles pupate in the soil. They spend the winter as adults.
Habitat and Food Source(s): 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.
Pest Status: Most are generally saprophagous. Others are pests of dried fruit.
For additional information, contact your local Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service agent or search for other state Extension offices.
Literature: Swan and Papp 1972.