Wasp Nest Dermestid
Reesa vespulae
This record describes Reesa vespulae (species). Recorded family: Dermestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Dermestidae (Carpet Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Megatominae
- Tribe
- Megatomini
- Genus
- Reesa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
infests dead insects, museum material, various stored seeds and dried plant material; outdoors, in bird and wasp nests
Geographic Range
native to NA, widespread, but existing records mostly across n. NA - Map , adventive and widespread in Europe and New Zealand
Seasonal Activity
In the UK, adults found indoors at windows Apr-Oct (peak in Jul)
Diet and Behavior
Life History
parthenogenetic
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Reesa vespulae. 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 Wasp Nest Dermestid (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Wasp Nest Dermestid
How big is Wasp Nest Dermestid?
2.5–3.8 mm
Where is Wasp Nest Dermestid found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | infests dead insects, museum material, various stored seeds and dried plant material; outdoors, in bird and wasp nests |
| Range | native to NA, widespread, but existing records mostly across n. NA - Map , adventive and widespread in Europe and New Zealand |
When is Wasp Nest Dermestid active?
Wasp Nest Dermestid: seasonal activity - In the UK, adults found indoors at windows Apr-Oct (peak in Jul).
What is the life cycle of a Wasp Nest Dermestid?
parthenogenetic