False Black Flour Beetle

Tribolium destructor

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tribolium destructor: //traɪˈboʊ.li.əm dɪˈstrʌk.tɔr//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Tribolium.destructor by Sarefo. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
Tribolium destructor, grote rijstmeelkever (2) by Rasbak. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
CSIRO ScienceImage 11080 Tribolium destructor False black flour beetle by division, CSIRO. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.
Tribolium destructor, grote rijstmeelkever (3) by Rasbak. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
Tribolium destructor, grote rijstmeelkever (1) by Rasbak. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Summary

The Destructive Flour Beetle (Tribolium destructor) is a significant pest species that attacks stored grain and flour, causing economic losses.

Physical Characteristics

Very dark brown beetle, 5–6 mm long, darker than other Tribolium species.

Identification Tips

Similar in appearance to T. confusum; identification is challenging as several species of Tribolium may occur in the same infestation.

Habitat

Found in stored flour and grain, animal-food pellets, and other stored products.

Distribution

North America, Europe, and Africa; adventive in North America and Europe.

Diet

Infests stored flour, bran, rolled oats, semolina, alfalfa meal, sunflower seeds, grains, and poultry feed.

Ecosystem Role

Common pest of stored products.

Economic Impact

Known for infesting and damaging stored flour and grain, as well as animal feed.

Similar Taxa

  • T. confusum

Tags

  • Tribolium destructor
  • false black flour beetle
  • pest
  • stored products
  • darkling beetle