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Larder Beetles
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Beetles of the genus Dermestes are common pests of
stored products. They feed on almost any material rich in animal
protein, causing damage in many industrial and residential
structures. They attack meats, cheese, skins, dried fish, dry pet
foods, mounted specimens, insect collections, etc. Larvae cause
additional damage by boring into wood, insulation, concrete and
even lead.
Dermestes beetles are elongated black or brown insects
approximately one-quarter- to one-third-inch long, with short
antennae ending in a distinct, three-segmented club.
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Their body is covered with fine, short hairs that often form a
colour pattern. The distinctive coloration of the larder beetle
makes it easy to distinguish from other Dermestes
species.
The larvae are brown and densely covered in stiff, bristly
hairs. A full-grown larva is usually slightly longer than an adult
beetle. ending in a distinct, three-segmented club. Their body is
covered with fine, short hairs that often form a colour pattern.
The distinctive coloration of the larder beetle makes it easy to
distinguish from other Dermestes species. The larvae are
brown and densely covered in stiff, bristly hairs. A full-grown
larva is usually slightly longer than an adult beetle.
Where do they come from?
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What harm do they do?
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How can I get rid of them?
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Telephone: (023) 9244 6670
Email: ehenvironment@havant.gov.uk
Visit: Civic Offices, Civic Centre Road,
Havant PO9 2AX
Where do they come from?
Larder beetles overwinter as adults. In spring, the beetles fly
in search of suitable breeding sites. Larvae can hatch after
two-and-a-half to 12 days, depending on temperature and humidity,
and start to feed. Adults live approximately one year. When ready
to pupate, larvae wander away from the food source and bore into
any hard substrate they can find. Pupation occurs within the
burrow. The cast larval skin and debris from burrowing serve to
plug the opening. The pupal period lasts 8 to 15 days, but may
be prolonged by unfavourable conditions. The duration of life cycle
is about two or three months, but it may vary greatly depending on
environmental conditions.
Do they do any harm?
The greatest harm caused by larder beetles is that they ruin the
foods they contaminate.
How do I get rid of them?
The first step in controlling larder beetle infestations is
locating the food source. Both larvae and adults tend to travel
long distances, and finding one or two does not necessarily mean
locating the infestation. In homes, inspect kitchen cabinets,
shelves and spaces under ovens and refrigerators. Sheds where
animal feed is stored should be inspected. Attics and basements
should be checked for the presence of dead rodents, birds, bats or
insects. In food processing facilities and restaurants,
food-processing equipment should be closely inspected, as well as
any cracks and crevices where debris might have accumulated. The
food source should be removed, the area thoroughly cleaned and any
cracks sealed to prevent reinfestation. Residual insecticides can
be applied as dusts or sprays. Infested vertebrate specimens or
insect collections should be fumigated. The best way to prevent and
control larder beetle infestations is exclusion and good sanitation
practices. Keeping stored foods in tightly sealed containers and
properly disposing of garbage will eliminate odours attractive to
beetles. To prevent invasion from the outside, it is helpful to
install tightly fitting door and window screens and seal all
external holes and cracks.