The mealworm beetle is a member of the family of darkling beetles. They are most well known for being a source of high protein.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Tenebrionidae
• Genus: Tenebrio
• Scientific name: Tenebrio molitor

Physical Description and Identification

Adult 

Size: 1.25-1.8 cm

Color: These beetles are black.

Other Characteristic Features: They are prolific breeders, with the males releasing a pheromone to attract females.

Larva

The larvae go through many instars (around 9-20). They are 2.5 cm long.

Pupa

Pupae are whitish, turning brown over time. This stage lasts for 3-30 days.

Egg

Females lay over 500 eggs in their lifetime.

Quick Facts

Lifespan	3 – 12 months
Distribution	Worldwide
Habitat	Animal burrows, under logs and rocks, and in stored grains
Seasons active	Year-round
Predators	Reptiles
Diet of adults and larvae	Decaying leaves, sticks, grasses, and occasionally new plant growth. Also, dead insects, feces, and stored grains.

Identifying the Damage Caused by Them

Both the adults and larvae are pests of stored grains.

Did You Know

• Mealworms are often used as food – both for pets like reptiles and birds and also humans. They have high protein content.
• These insects can digest polystyrene at a rate of around 34-39 mg/ day.
• The mealworm was one of the first terrestrial creatures to travel to and circle back from the moon on the Soviet mission Zond 5 in 1968.

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