Origin:
Possibly European in origin as it is extremely similar to other European species.
Biology:
Like other flour beetles this species will infest nearly any grain-based foods, but is uncommon in North America and of minor importance. It may be found outdoors as often as within stored food products indoors.
Identification:
This is one of the largest of the Tribolium flour beetles, with adult ranging from 1/8 to 3/16 inch long. It is solid black and somewhat shiny. The prothorax is relatively short and wide compared with other members of this genus. The antennae are typical of the Tribolium, being short and beadlike with the last few segments barely enlarged.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Control of most stored food pest beetles relies on a combination of proper storage of products in cool, dry conditions and if possible in pest-proof containers, sanitation measures to remove or prevent spilled materials and dust accumulations, and monitoring with pheromone traps to determine when adult insect activity may begin in an account or to pinpoint the location of the infestation within a structure. Fumigation with either methyl bromide or aluminum phosphide will kill all stages of the beetles present in food, and ensure food products are pest-free as they go into storage.
