Carpet Beetle vs Platter Ant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Carpet Beetle Platter Ant
Scientific Name Attagenus pellio Cataulacus intrudens
Order Coleoptera Hymenoptera
Family Dermestidae Formicidae
Size 4-6mm 3-6 mm
Habitat Indoors Forests
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Worldwide West and Central Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Carpet Beetle

A small dark beetle with a single white spot on each elytron. Larvae damage woolen textiles and natural fabrics.

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Did You Know?

One of the most common household pests worldwide whose larvae can destroy valuable woolen clothing and carpets.

Platter Ant

An arboreal African ant with a heavily armored, flattened body and sculptured cuticle. Workers have a broad, shield-like head that can be used to block nest entrances. They nest in tree holes and have a slow, deliberate gait.

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Did You Know?

Their flattened body and strong tarsal grip allow them to resist removal by predators by clamping flat against bark surfaces.