Latin: Reesa Vespulae
The American dermestidae is a relatively new pest in Danish optics. It originates from North America but has since found its way across the Atlantic. The American dermestidae first appeared around Europe in the early 1960s but is now a fairly common pest both in Denmark and in the rest of Europe, where it is also known by its Latin name Reesa Vespulae.
Appearance
The American dermestidae is a beetle that, when fully grown, is between 2 and 5 millimeters long. It shares many similarities in appearance with its fellow species – the brown carpet beetle – with its brown body, which is characterized by a light drawing on the front part. Its head and chest, on the other hand, are black.
The larvae from the American dermestidae can grow up to 6 millimeters long. They appear “furry” and are brown, whereas the underside of the larva is yellowish. The larval body joint consists of some coarse bristles. In addition, it has a cross band on the back that consists of thin hair. At the tip of the hind body, the larva has a small “tail” of golden hair that almost resembles a wide-bristled brush.
Biology and behavior
In the nature, the American dermestidae feeds primarily on dead insects. But the larvae are by no means picky. In fact, they are omnivorous and like to clean up after other animals if they have left a devoured prey in the wild.
Studies of the American dermestidae have shown that the species consists only of females. The reproduction therefore takes place without the help of males, as the female is laying unfertilized eggs that develop into larvae. This form of reproduction is called parthenogenetic. The larvae have a few weeks to hatch if they have good conditions. They then go through the stage between larvae to adult clans, which last a year or more.
In the household, the American dermestidae will often take up residence in areas where it can hide or seek shelter. Therefore, floor cracks, sweeping strips, gaps and similar areas are obvious areas for the clan to settle down.
Damage
Dermertidaes are often called nature’s garbage men, as they live off dead animals and thus help to clean up nature. Although the American dermestidae is virtually omnivorous, it can actually live for months without consuming water or food.
Just as practical the dermestidaes can be in the wild, just as harmful it can be within our homes. The American dermestidea is as mentioned not picky. It can quickly consume everything from the contents of your kitchen cabinets to your wardrobe – or mash up your houseplants and leave excrement in the same areas. All the features that make it quite undesirable in the home.
Prevention and pest control
If you want to fight the American dermestidaes in your home, it will often be sufficient to be thorough with the cleaning. Be sure to vacuum cracks and crevices thoroughly and be careful to keep your dry goods in kitchen cabinets securely wrapped so the beetles do not settle in your flour or oatmeal. In addition, it is also a good idea to change your garbage bag regularly.
If the beetles attack smaller objects, it may be sufficient to freeze or heat them to kill the pest. That way, you can get rid of both adult beetles, larvae, and eggs at once.
"Pests in House and Home"
"Bed Bugs - Bites, Stings and Itches"
"Food Pests"
"Husets dyreliv" (Insects Around the House - Only danish)
"Skadedyr i træ" (Timber Pests - Only danish)
"Stuefluen" (Common Housefly - Only danish)