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The name "fungus beetle" may be applied to several closely-related groups of beetles. The most commonly encountered "fungus beetles" are the silken fungus beetles and the minute brown scavenger beetles.

Both the silken fungus beetles and the minute brown scavenger beetles are small in size (less than 4 mm), brownish in color (varying from yellowish to almost black) and with clubbed antennae. Also, their bodies are frequently covered with dense pubescence and/or dimple- like punctures.

Fungus beetles have a complete metamorphosis (egg- larva-pupa-adult) and the developmental period varies according to the temperature. For example, at 75 degrees F the life cycle is completed in 25 to 36 days; at 65 degrees F; 54 days; and, at lower temperatures: up to 5 months!

The name fungus beetle is derived from the habits of these beetles; they are usually associated with fungi (molds, mildews, etc.). These beetles have been reported from houses, cellars, barns, warehouses, granaries and mills. Specifically, they may be associated with decaying plant material, woodpiles, mammal, ant or termites nests, fungi and freshly plastered or papered walls.

As far as is known, these beetles, even those associated with stored products, feed entirely upon the spores and hyphae of fungi (especially the beetles may contaminate stored goods with their excreta and cast skins. Also, they may mechanically transfer fungal spores; however, considering the ubiquitous nature of fungal spores, most suitable materials would be colonized without the assistance of the beetles.

Control of these beetles can be achieved by a combination of three tactics: regulation of moisture and humidity level, elimination of host materials (with fungi) and insecticidal spot treatments.

Excess moisture and humidity is favorable for the growth of fungi, and the control of moisture is therefore an important pre-requisite to successful elimination of these beetles. Adequate heating and ventilation (even a period of hot, dry weather) can eliminate an infestation.

Because these beetles and their larvae feed exclusively on fungi (molds, mildews, etc.) they can be eradicated by eliminating all fungi. The source of the infestation may be difficult to locate because the fungi may be located in neglected stored products (grains, yeast, etc.), wall voids (rodent and insect nests), on freshly plastered walls and moldy wallpaper paste, on basement walls, or around moist window cases or plumbing.

Integrated Fungus Beetle Management Insecticidal products containing pyrethrins may be used to subdue active adult fungus beetles which aggregate around windows or lights.

For a complete listing of suggested control option for all home, yard and garden insect pests contact your local Extension Service, found under local government in the phone book.

Read and follow instructions on the pesticide label. Heed all warnings. Check with your physician if you have any concerns regarding your personal health risk. Revised by Tom Ellis, M.S., Department of Entomology



MSU 2003