The flour mite: an invisible pest in your kitchen
The flour mite (Acarus siro) is a small but extremely harmful species of mite that can become a real nuisance in any household. Here is what you need to know about this inconspicuous pest.
Characteristics and structure
The dust mite belongs to the family of mites (Acaridae). Adult mites are 0.5 to 0.7 mm long. They have four pairs of multi-segmented legs with claws at the end. Larvae are similar to adults but have only three pairs of legs.
Life cycle
The flour beetle goes through several stages of development. In difficult environmental conditions, it can take on a resistant form, called a spore, waiting for better conditions to develop. Interestingly, the flour moth is able to eat seven times its own weight in a day. Its diet consists mainly of cereal products, which it contaminates with faeces, moulting skins and dead individuals.
Harm to food products
The flour moth is a pest of many food products such as dried goods or flour. It eats them, moistens them and contaminates them with faeces and excrement, leading to mould. Products infested with this mite acquire an unpleasant musty odour and are unfit for consumption. It is worth noting that the flour mite does not feed on products with a moisture content below 12%.
Impact on Human Health
Mealworms can cause various ailments in humans. Their hairs can cause itching and skin irritation, also known as ‘warehouse worker’s dermatitis’. They can also irritate the respiratory tract and cause allergic conjunctivitis. Consumption of products contaminated by mealworms can lead to gastrointestinal disorders.
How to get rid of flour weevils?
Products heavily infested with flour weevils should be disposed of immediately. They are not suitable for consumption or animal feed. Furthermore, they should not be processed, as toxic substances can pass into the products.
Summary
The flour beetle is a small but very harmful pest that can attack food products in our homes. Its presence can lead to serious health problems, so it is important to check food products regularly and take action to control it.
