DESCRIPTION
Both cigarette and drugstore beetles are very similar in many of their characteristics, including appearance, size, food and treatment method. In these notes we will point out some of similarities and differences which will help to identify the insect.
SIMILARITIES
Viewed from the top:
. Squat humped back appearance; Head not visible; Antenna & legs not visible when at rest.
Size – 2mm to 3mm long.
DIFFERENCES
FEATURE DRUGSTORE BEETLE CIGARETTE BEETLE
Shape More cylindrical Oval
Antenna Clubbed 3 segments Serrated, saw tooth
Colour Brown Red brown
Wing covers Rows of pits Smooth shiny
HABITS
Cigarette Beetles are a major pest of tobacco.
Food – All types of spices, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, books, upholstered furniture, dry pet food.
Drugstore Beetles are considered pantry pests.
Food – -As above as well as leather, wool, hair, museum items.
Both these beetles can easily penetrate packaging materials and are strong fliers.
Some of the more usual food sources are: dried flowers, glazed bread, rodent blocks and grain, dried pet food.
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