Biocontrol-research
Guides
Attagenus unicolor
black carpet beetle
Attagenus unicolor, the black carpet beetle, is a 3–5 millimeter beetle in the family Dermestidae. It is considered the most destructive carpet beetle species in the United States. The larval stage causes damage to household fabrics, furniture, and stored products by feeding on natural fibers and dried animal materials. Adults feed on flower pollen. The species has both economic and minor medical significance due to the irritating hairs of larvae, which can cause dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Inopus
sugarcane soldier fly, soldier fly
Inopus is a genus of soldier flies in the family Stratiomyidae, comprising approximately six described species native to Australia. The genus includes economically significant agricultural pests, particularly Inopus rubriceps (sugarcane soldier fly) and Inopus flavus, whose larvae feed on plant roots and cause substantial damage to sugarcane crops and pastures. Larvae develop underground for one to two years, while short-lived adults do not feed. Several species have been introduced to New Zealand and California, where they continue to impact agricultural systems.
Limonius canus
Pacific Coast Wireworm
Limonius canus, commonly known as the Pacific Coast wireworm, is a click beetle species in the family Elateridae. The larval stage is a significant agricultural pest, particularly damaging to potatoes, wheat, and other crops in the Pacific Coast region of North America. Research has documented its behavioral responses to insecticides, including repellence and contact-induced morbidity from certain compounds. The species harbors diverse gut bacteria that have been investigated for potential biocontrol applications.