Which beetle family is described as a late-stage decomposer that preys on other insects and feeds on dead tissue?

• A. Scarabidae
• B. Cleridae
• C. Dermestidae
• D. Calliphoridae

Answer: (B)

In forensic entomology, beetle groups align with different roles on a decomposing body as decomposition progresses. The family described is known for being predators on other insects found on carrion and for frequenting the later stages of decay, when prey is abundant and tissue is drying out. These checkered beetles specialize in preying on other insect larvae and can also take advantage of remaining dead tissue, helping to clear the carcass as it moves toward skeletonization. This combination of arriving in the later stages, preying on other insects, and feeding on tissue best matches clerid beetles.

For contrast, scarab beetles are more associated with dung and plant detritus, dermestid beetles are classic late-stage scavengers that feed mainly on dry, dead tissue rather than predating other insects, and flies in the Calliphoridae family are early colonizers that lay eggs on fresh tissue, with their larvae dominating the earlier decay stages.