| DESCRIPTION |
 |
Presence in tomb of Tutankhamen Probably native to Egypt; no change in structrue
over last 3500 years Sivik et. al (1957): insect is the most destructive
pest found in stored tobacco Distribution: cosmopolitan Furniture that was
upholstered with flax tow or straw supports infestations of this beetle.
Adults are strong fliers and will fly on late afternoons and dull cloudy
days; Back (1939) "At such times, so many adults are on the wingin warehouses
and about loading platforms that life may be made miserable for those who
workor live within the neighborhood." Feed on rice, ginger, raisins, pepper,
dried fish, dates, belladonna, drugs, seeds, and pyrethrum powder strong
enough to kill cockroaches Dried straw flowers may be a source of infestation
into homes Merrill (1948): this beetle is the chief offender in botanical
circles where it is known as the "herbarium beetle" Mampe (1976): found place
packets of rodent bait to be a source of infestation for this beetle Adults:
small, squat, 2-3 mm in length; shiny, reddish-brown in color; resembles
the drugstore beetle, but is lighter colored and elytra do not bear the lines
of pits; antennae are serrate and do not end in the 3-segmented club (cp.
S. serricorne).