|
|
|
|
|
LARDER
BEETLE
Dermestes lardarius L |
|
|
|
|
|
The larder beetle is a commercial pest as well as a household pest. This is a cosmopolitan species which was historically a pest of cured meats in Europe, the United States, and Canada. The use of refrigeration, the purchase of meats in small quantities, and the lack of home curing of meats, have decreased the economic importance of this insect. Larder beetle populations are increasing in suburban areas. One authority has reasoned that fertilized lawns are responsible. Fertilized lawns produce large numbers of earthworms on which cluster flies are parasitic. In the fall, these flies, along with other flies, beetles and wasps, accumulate in attics and similar spaces in the home. Many of the hibernating insects die, attracting larder beetles which lay eggs on dead insects. The larvae of the larder beetle then feed on the dead insects. |
|
|
Description
|
|
|
The adult larder beetle is dark brown and approximately 1/3 inch in length. The basal halves of the wing covers are densely covered with coarse, pale yellow hairs. Six dark spots are usually in the yellow band. The undersurface of the body and legs are covered with fine yellow hairs. The larva is brownish and approximately 1/2 inch in length. It is characterized by two curved spines on the last body segment. Like the adult, the larva is densely covered with hairs. |
Photo by: |
|
Seasonal Development
|
|
|
Larder beetles often overwinter
in crevices of bark or other sheltered places. In early spring, the
beetles are attracted to dead insects and will enter the house to oviposit.
Through the summer months, females lay more than 100 eggs; the incubation
period is less than 12 days. The larvae, preferring spoiled meat, will
feed constantly until the next to last molt. They may molt |
|
|
Injury |
|
|
Major injury occurs from larval feeding and the boring of the larvae before pupation. Larder beetles will attack stored ham, bacon, other meats, cheeses, tobacco, dried fish, dried museum specimens, and pet foods, for example. The larvae will bore into any commodity containing meat products; they have also been known to bore into structural timbers. Tests have shown that they can bore into lead with ease and tin with some difficulty. The boring is for the purpose of providing a protected place for pupation, not for feeding. |
|
|
Management
|
|
|
Cleaning,
inspection, and elimination of infested food sources are the first steps
in controlling this pest. Valuable materials which are infested can
be heat sterilized (140° for 1/2 hour) or frozen (0° for 3-4
days). Place food materials that might attract beetles into tight jars
or cans to discourage reinfestation.
|
|
|
Warning
|
|
|
Pesticides are poisonous. Read and follow directions and safety precautions on labels. Handle carefully and store in original labeled containers out of the reach of children, pets, and livestock. Dispose of empty containers right away, in a safe manner and place. Do not contaminate forage, streams, or ponds. Authored by: Steve Jacobs, Sr. Extension Associate December
1996 ©
The Pennsylvania State University 2003
This publication is available in alternative media on request. Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce. Return to Entomological Notes Listing Home | Research | Extension
& Outreach | Graduate
Program | Courses | Personnel
|
|
