What is this strange bug??? ( with photo)

Discussion in 'Garden Pest Management and Identification' started by GreenLeaf, Dec 18, 2005.

  1. GreenLeaf

    GreenLeaf Active Member 10 Years

    Messages:
    76
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    USA
    Over the past few weeks, I found this bug here and there in my home, usually one at a time, occasionally in groups of several. I don't know if these bugs have any connections to my plants (none are harmed as I've checked). I see them on walls, on tables, on counters, even near some food crumbs in the kitchen. They're a little smaller than a grain of rice. Yes, they do move (but very slowly). Maybe they're insect larva? What is it/where does it come from? What's the best way to remove it? I am so sick of these things!!!

    Thanks for any help!
    Any info leading to removing these bugs will be very much appreciated!
     

    Attached Files:

  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

    Messages:
    21,251
    Likes Received:
    786
    Location:
    WA USA (Z8)
    Search "larder beetle", see what you find. That's what I call them.
     
  3. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

    Messages:
    11,417
    Likes Received:
    501
    Location:
    Britain zone 8/9
  4. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

    Messages:
    21,251
    Likes Received:
    786
    Location:
    WA USA (Z8)
    We lost some tropical tropical buttefly specimens to them. Didn't notice what was up until the wings slumped out of position.
     
  5. Tim Yoho

    Tim Yoho Member

    Messages:
    4
    Likes Received:
    0
    Location:
    Lock Haven, PA USA
    I agree with previous ID. The picture is of a Dermestid beetle larva (Family Dermestidae). The adults are often found on flowers but the larvae are scavengers and feed on a wide variety of materials including leather, furs, woolens, stored food material and are the bane of entomologists like myself who have to remember to keep moth crystals in insect collections. I suggest using crystals with any preserved nonfood items and immediatedly bag and discard vacuum sweepings.

    I am BTY new to the forum and would be glad to answer any insect, spider, tick questions from viewers.

    Tim Yoho
    Bug Doctor
     

Share This Page