Confused Flour Beetle

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What Is A Confused Flour Beetle?

It is believed that the confused flour beetle, (T. confusum), originated in Ethiopia. Contemporarily, it lives in most parts of the world, but is particularly common in temperate climates. The confused flour beetle is considered a significant pest of several commodities, including cereals and cereal products, dried fruits, nuts and spices. 

What Does A Confused Flour Beetle Look Like?

Confused flour beetles are reddish-brown in color with a flat body. They have two antennae on their heads which end in a 3-segmented club. Confused flour beetles also have wings that are covered by a thin shell. 

Confused flour beetles are often misidentified as red flour beetles (T. castaneum) which are similar in color and size, but have differently shaped antennae with 4 segments as opposed to the confused flour beetle’s 3-segmented antennae. 

Confused Flour Beetle Behavior

These beetles are scavengers, predaceous and cannibalistic. Confused flour beetles lay their eggs directly in food materials or attach them to the surface of a food storage container. The confused flour beetle does not tolerate cold weather.

Signs of a Confused Flour Beetle Infestation

One clear indication that you have confused flour beetles in your home is the presence of small tubular tunnels near or in stored grain products. If you have dry grain products or flour in your home that has been infested by confused flour beetles, you may detect a moldy flavor and strong odor. You may see adult flour beetles at the top of the infested foods, but don’t assume there is an infestation. They often burrow deep inside food materials or even run away if disturbed. If you think you have a confused flour beetle issue, throw away any questionable food, clean cabinet areas with soap and water and call a pest professional to make sure your home is rid of every last beetle. 

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