Warehouse Beetle
Trogoderma variabile
Identification
- 1/8 inch long
- covered in orange, white and black scales/hairs
- look similar to other carpet beetles; verify ID
Nesting Habits
- lay eggs in stored food products and any animal or plant-based products
Diet
- cake mix, candy, cereals, chocolate, cookies, corn, dog food, pasta, oats, peas, potato chips, dried fruit, rice, spices
- anything of animal origin including dead animals and pet and human hair that has collected on the floor, etc.
Significance
- infest and ruin food
- hastasetae (arrow-shaped hairs) on larvae can irritate throat if consumed
IPM Recommendations
- Inspect all incoming food items for pests.
- Quickly clean up all spilled food products, especially in food storage areas.
- Properly store all susceptible food items in pest-proof containers.
- Keep food in regular rotation.
- Keep moisture low in food storage areas by improving ventilation.
- Dispose of infested food items.
- Consider monitoring in food storage areas with a warehouse beetle pheromone lure and trap.