Ptinus is a genus of beetles distributed throughout much of the world, including Africa, the Australian region, the Palearctic, the Near East, the Nearctic, and the Neotropical realm.

It is a member of the subfamily Ptininae, the spider beetles.

About 24 species have been found associated with stored food products in various parts of the world.

[2] Both adults and larvae feed on grain, dried fruit, spices and other dried foodstuffs.

[2] The species Ptinus tectus is considered a pest species in Museums and can damage stored objects and collections.