Warehouse beetle
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Description
The warehouse beetle, Trogoderma variabile, can reach about 6.3mm in size. The larvae are a threat in particular to plant and insect collections. They feed primarily on dried grains, but have also been on animal specimens in the museum setting. Their setae (hair-like structures) are regularly shed and can cause respiratory and digestive irritation to anyone exposed.
From egg to adult, their life cycle persists for 30-37 days. Adults are able to fly. The Warehouse Beetle is very tolerant of starvation,low humidity and other adverse environmental conditions. Therefore it is a very persistent pest that is unresponsive to some pest treatments.
Resources and Citations
- MuseumPests.net: Warehouse Beetle