Drugstore beetles are so named because they were common occupants of early pharmacies.
Identification
- Small, light brown beetles
- Elytra are covered with a light pubescence and vertical indented bands along the length of the thorax and abdomen
- Larval drugstore beetles are small, C-shaped larvae, similar to the grubs found outdoors
Environment
- Common pests of pantries, pet foods, spices, and almost any dried plant material
- Infestations usually located in a kitchen pantry in an item that has long since passed its expiration date
Threats
- Will usually go unnoticed in the kitchen for some time
Treatment
- Control is essentially a sanitation issue
- Infested products must be identified and removed from the home
- Chemical controls may be applied after the homeowner has removed all infested products
