The Nitidulidae is a large and variable family of beetles often found in association with fermenting habitats, although some, like this one, are found with fungi. A commonly encountered member of this family, the picnic beetle (Glischrochilus), is attracted to the scent of alcohol and is a frequent guest at summer social gatherings where beer and wine are present.

This illustration displays one of the greatest strengths of carbon dusting -- the ability to create very smooth shading, which is partially responsible for the photographic quality of well-crafted carbon dust illustrations.