Yellow Mealworm

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tenebrio molitor: //tɛˈneː.bri.oʊ ˈmɔ.lɪ.tɔr//

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Summary

Tenebrio molitor is the larval stage of the yellow mealworm beetle, known for its nutritional value and as a pest in food storage. It plays a significant role in the ecosystem by recycling organic matter and has potential for use in waste management due to its ability to degrade plastics.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are dark brown or black, measuring 13-16 mm in length. Larvae can reach lengths of up to 2.5 cm (0.98 in) or more and are typically lighter in color than those of related species.

Identification Tips

Differentiated by linear grooves along the abdomen and having only four tarsal segments on hind legs. The abdomen of the adult T. molitor is more rectangular and blunt-ended compared to T. obscurus, which has a rounded abdomen with a pointed tip.

Habitat

Prefers warmer climates with higher humidity.

Distribution

Originally from the Mediterranean region, now found in temperate regions worldwide, particularly northern areas, and introduced to North America around 1827.

Diet

Primarily feeds on materials of animal and vegetable origin including refuse grain, coarse cereal, mill products, meat scraps, dead insects, and feathers.

Life Cycle

Goes through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae typically exhibit 15-17 instars before pupation. The eggs hatch 4 to 19 days after oviposition, and pupation takes 3 to 30 days depending on conditions.

Reproduction

Females can lay about 500 eggs over their lifespan of approximately 6-12 months. Males release a sex pheromone to attract females.

Ecosystem Role

Serves as a recycler of organic debris and can degrade plastic waste, contributing to waste management.

Economic Impact

Considered a pest of food storage but also used in pet food and as a protein source in animal feed and human nutrition.

Cultural Significance

Historically consumed in many Asian countries and increasingly recognized as a food source in Western diets.

Health Concerns

Occasional reports of larvae surviving in the human alimentary tract, leading to very rare cases of canthariasis. Limited cases reported in animals.

Similar Taxa

• Tenebrio obscurus

Misconceptions

Often confused with the black mealworm beetle, T. obscurus, due to their similar size.

Tags

• Insect
• Beetle
• Pest
• Nutrition
• Waste Management