Lesser Mealworm—Alphitobius diaperinis

aka Darkling Beetle, Litter Beetle

Lesser mealworms feed in grains and flour, particularly in damp musty sites. Found in grain bins, mills, and poultry houses, where they destroy insulation through extensive tunneling. They sometimes become pests in stored foods inside homes. They transmit poultry diseases.

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Identification and Control Information (each will open in a new window)

Pest Management: Lesser Mealworms—University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Fact Sheet: Lesser Mealworm, Litter Beetle [PDF]—University of Florida Extension

[Photos, left to right: Charles Olsen, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org; Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org; Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org]

It is the policy of the State of Maine to minimize reliance on pesticides. The Maine Department of Agriculture and the Maine IPM Council encourage everyone to practice integrated pest management and to use pesticides only as a last resort. The mention of pesticides in the fact sheets linked to these pages does not imply an endorsement of any product. Be sure that any product used is currently registered and follow all label directions.

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Lesser Mealworm—Alphitobius diaperinis

aka Darkling Beetle, Litter Beetle

Identification and Control Information (each will open in a new window)

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