Sap beetles
Scientific name: Nitidulidae
Sap beetles
Scientific name: Nitidulidae
Description
The Nitidulidae, often misunderstood due to their attraction to fermented fruits, play a pivotal role in the ecosystem that extends beyond their apparent 'pest' status. Members of this family are not merely nuisances at picnics; they are vital for the decomposition of plant material and the pollination of certain flowers, including some commercially important crops. It's commonly presumed that these beetles solely spread diseases and spoil food, but their interaction with the environment is complex, facilitating the recycling of nutrients back into the soil, thus bolstering plant health.