The adults produce cantharidin in quantities which may cause blisters to form on sensitive human skin. The larvae of many species are beneficial in that they feed on grasshopper eggs. Several blister beetle species are occasionally pests of soybeans. Like the coccinellids, scarab beetles are oval or elongate and convex. Scarabs, however, are larger with heavier bodies.
Some members feed on decaying organic matter while others prefer living plants.
Both larvae and adults cause plant damage. Commonly known as white grubs, the larvae often abound among the roots of grasses. Adults of plant-feeding species are primarily attracted to ornamental and fruit trees as well as shrubs and flowers. A notable exception is the Japanese beetle which sporadically damages corn and so beans. Many members of this family are pests of stored grain.