Biscuit Beetle
Do you like biscuits? Who doesn’t!? But what about beetles? Do you enjoy their company as much as the warm, fluffy goodness of a biscuit? Probably not. In which case, hi! This blog post is for you. Today, we’re going to be talking about the biscuit beetle, a little creature that shares its name with our beloved baked goods. But don’t let the cute name fool you – this beetle can do some damage! Keep reading to learn more about this little critter and how to deal with it if you ever encounter one in your home.
Biscuit Beetle types, scientific name
Biscuit beetle is the common name for several species of small beetles that are all characterized by their cylindrical shape and brown color. The most common biscuit beetle in the United States is the Common Furniture Beetle, also known by its scientific name, Anobium punctatum. Other common species include the Drugstore Beetle, Stegobium paniceum, and the Cigarette Beetle, Lasioderma serricorne. All three of these species are considered pests because they are known to infest stored food products such as flour, cereal, and crackers.
In addition, they can also damage furniture and other wood products. While all three species are similar in appearance, the Common Furniture Beetle is the most destructive of the bunch. As its name suggests, this species is known to bore into wood furniture in search of food. This can cause extensive damage to cabinets, baseboards, and even floors. If you think you have a biscuit beetle infestation, it is essential to contact a pest control professional for assistance.
Biscuit Beetle physical appearance
The biscuit beetle is a small, dark brown beetle that measures between 1.5 and 3 mm in length. It has a rounded body shape and is covered in fine setae (hairs). The head is slightly wider than the body and bears two long, thin antennae. The beetle’s legs are short and stout, with the hind legs being noticeably more significant than the others. The biscuit beetle gets its name from its fondness for starchy foods such as biscuits, cereals, and flour. It is often found in pantries and food storage areas, where it can infest stored foodstuffs. Although it does not pose a health risk to humans, the biscuit beetle can be a nuisance pest.
Biscuit Beetle habitat
The biscuit beetle is found all over the world. In the United States, it is widespread in the southeastern states. It is also found in Canada, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. The biscuit beetle prefers warm climates and is often found in bakeries, warehouses, and homes. It can also be found in stored food products, such as flour, cereals, nuts, and dried fruit. The biscuit beetle is a small brown beetle that is about one-tenth of an inch long. Its body is covered with tiny hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance.
The biscuit beetle has a hard shell and a long head with large eyes. Its mouthparts are adapted for chewing. The biscuit beetle feeds on a variety of foods, but it is especially fond of biscuits and cookies. It can also be a severe pest to stored food products. If you think you have a biscuit beetle infestation, it is important to contact a certified pest management professional for treatment options.
Biscuit Beetle diet
The biscuit beetles are attracted to all kinds of food, but they particularly enjoy starchy foods such as flour, cereal, and crackers. While the beetles themselves are not harmful to humans, their diet can cause all sorts of problems.
For example, if they infest a bag of flour, they will quickly contaminate it with their excrement. In addition, the beetles often carry diseases that can be transferred to humans through food contamination. As a result, it is essential to be vigilant about keeping these pests out of the kitchen.
Biscuit Beetle interesting facts
- The biscuit beetle is a small, brown beetle that is often found in homes. Though they are harmless to humans, they can cause damage to food and stored goods. Here are some interesting facts about biscuit beetles:
- Biscuit beetles are attracted to all kinds of foods, including biscuits, cereals, and dried fruits.
- The female biscuit beetle can lay up to 100 eggs at a time, and the larvae can survive for several months without food.
- Biscuit beetles are often found in pantries and cupboards, where they can contaminate food with their droppings and shed skin.
- These beetles can also infest tobacco products, causing the tobacco to taste bitter.
While biscuit beetles may be a nuisance, they are not harmful to humans. However, they can damage food and other goods, so it is important to keep an eye out for these pests in your home.
Biscuit Beetle life cycles
The biscuit beetles are particularly attracted to stored food products, which they will happily invade in order to feed on. Once inside a food source, the beetles will lay their eggs. The resulting larvae are tiny and white, and they have a voracious appetite. They will tunnel through whatever food they are infesting, turning it into a fine powder as they go.
The pupal stage of the biscuit beetle’s life cycle lasts for around two weeks, after which time the adult beetles will emerge. They will then mate and start the cycle all over again. Unfortunately for homeowners, a single female biscuit beetle can lay up to 100 eggs at a time, making infestations challenging to control.
Biscuit Beetle prevention
Biscuit Beetles are insects that are found all around the world. They are attracted to food that is high in carbohydrates, which is why they are often found in pantries and kitchens. While they do not carry any diseases, they can contaminate food with their droppings and cause it to become spoiled. There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent these unwelcome guests from infesting your home;
First, make sure all food is properly sealed in containers. Biscuit Beetles can enter through tiny openings, so it is vital to check that all lids and sealable bags are securely closed.
Second, regularly vacuum and clean all surfaces in your kitchen, as even the smallest crumbs can attract these pests.
Finally, if you do find an infestation, contact a professional exterminator to quickly and safely get rid of the problem.
By taking these precautions, you can keep your home free of Biscuit Beetles.
FAQ’s
How to get rid of Biscuit Beetles?
There are many ways to get rid of Biscuit Beetles. For example, thoroughly clean food residues from areas where beetles are found or throw out infested food. It is also better to check the eaves or loft of your houses.
Conclusion
The biscuit beetle is a new invasive species in the United States that has been causing some significant damage to crops. This little beetle seems to like nothing more than munching on biscuits, and it’s been wreaking havoc on southern flour production. It may be small, but this beetle can cause big problems. If you live in an area where the biscuit beetle has been spotted, be sure to keep your eyes peeled and report any sightings to your local agricultural extension office.