Tenebrio Beetle (Darkling Beetle / Mealworm Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Often found in dark, moist environments like grain stores, leaf litter, and under bark.

Diet & Feeding

Polyphagous scavengers; they consume decaying plant matter, cereals, flour, and organic debris.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and reclusive; the beetle is the adult stage of the common mealworm, which undergoes complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a stored-product pest in homes and silos; however, they are beneficial as a major food source (as mealworms) for reptiles and birds.

Identified on: 6/6/2026