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World-wide distribution with a preference for
temperate climates. Cosmopolitan in choice of habitat, infesting all manner of
commodities in both commercial and domestic food stores. Life cycle may be completed
inside the food commodity. High potential for cross infestation due to ability to
fly. |
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The Biscuit or Drugstore Beetle
Image Copyright - Aventis
Environmental Science 1964. Reproduced with kind permission of Aventis Environmental
Science. |
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May attack not only foodstuffs but leather,
hide, paper and other manufactured goods. Documented as able to eat through almost
all packaging including metal. Wide distribution, ability to fly and omnivorous
nature make this species a significant commercial and domestic pest. |
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Complete metamorphosis life cycle. Larvae
are voracious feeders, quite able to chew through almost all forms of packaging.
Humidity limits of 10% and 70% define limiting factors. Closely related to Woodworm
and Tobacco / Cigarette Beetles (Anobiidae) which it closely resembles. Only able
to complete one life cycle per year below optimum conditions. |
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Location and elimination of source are
recommended. Stock rotation and Quarantine of incoming goods are important
considerations. Fumigation and Residual treatments may be necessary in many
industrial situations, subject to local pesticides regulations. Monitoring
strategies may be used to increase targeting efficiency. |
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