Red rust flour beetle
Scientific name: Tribolium castaneum
Family: Tenebroidae
Distribution
Worldwide
Pest Type
Secondary pest
Identification
Adults are about 3.0–4.5 mm long, and are flattened. The common name of this species is from their reddish-brown or rust colour. Its antenna has a 3-segmented club, and the margin of its pronotum is slightly curved. Adults can fly.
Life Cycle
Life cycle can be completed in 20 days at 33–38℃ and 70% or higher relative humidity. The eggs are laid on commodities, and the larvae are external feeders. Adults have a long life span, and feed on commodities.
Commodities attacked
Attacks various dried products of animal and plant origin such as nuts, dried fruit, processed food, powdered raw materials, flour, processed foods, etc.
Economic Importance
A major pest of mills, processing plants, and storage facilities.
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