Tribe of Confusers: The Grain Product Pests

The tribe of confusers, scientifically known as Tribolium confusum, is a type of dark beetle known as a flour beetle. It is commonly recognised as a pest that attacks and infests stored flour and grain. It is one of the most common and destructive insect pests of grain and other food products stored in silos, warehouses, grocery stores and homes.

Characteristics and Distribution

The lesser mealworm is very similar in appearance and behaviour to the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. Both beetles are small, between 3 and 6 mm long, and reddish-brown in colour. The main difference is in the shape of their antennae: the antennae of the three-cornered beetle gradually increase in size and have four clubs, while the red flour beetle has only three. Furthermore, red flour beetles can fly short distances, while lesser mealworms cannot.

Ecology and Behaviour

Although lesser mealworms (and red ones) cannot feed on whole, intact grain, they can often be found in large numbers in infected grains, by feeding on broken grain, grain dust and other household foodstuffs such as flour, rice, dried fruit, nuts and beans. Both beetle species can often be found not only in infected grains but also in crevices in pantries and cupboards. The damage caused by these beetles is due to their feeding as well as their dead bodies, excrement and unpleasant secretions. In addition to the unpleasant odour, the presence of beetles promotes the growth of mould.

Summary

The lesser mealworm is an inconspicuous but very harmful storage pest. Its presence in grain warehouses can lead to significant losses in stored crops. It is important to regularly monitor warehouses and take appropriate measures to control it.