Cobweb Beetle
Ctesias serra
This record describes Ctesias serra (species). Recorded family: Dermestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The common name relates to the habit of the larva of taking trapped insects from spider webs. The adult beetle is dark brown in colour and rarely seen in its natural habitat, so this beetle is more commonly recorded as a larva. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. The preferred habitat is beneath old, thick bark. The larva of Ctesias serra lives in crevices and under the bark of ancient trees, feeding on the left-over meals of spiders. The hairs are part of its defence mechanism against attack by spiders - thrusting them forward when threatened. Widespread, particularly in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Dermestidae
- Genus
- Ctesias
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The preferred habitat is beneath old, thick bark.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larva of
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread, particularly in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ctesias serra. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Cobweb Beetle (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cobweb Beetle
What is Cobweb Beetle?
Cobweb Beetle (Ctesias serra) is a species in the family Dermestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cobweb Beetle found?
Habitat: The preferred habitat is beneath old, thick bark.
When is Cobweb Beetle active?
Cobweb Beetle: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Cobweb Beetle?
The larva of