Species Insects & ArthropodsYellow Mealworm Beetle

Yellow Mealworm Beetle

Tenebrio molitor

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Yellow Mealworm Beetle (Tenebrio molitor)

The Yellow Mealworm Beetle is a black darkling beetle whose larva, the mealworm, is one of the most widely recognized insects in the world — commercially raised by the millions as reptile and bird food. Adults are nocturnal, found in grain stores and under debris. Mealworms are now being studied as a sustainable protein source for human food.

Habitat
Grain storage, animal feeds, and dark concealed areas
Diet
Larvae and adults: grain, bran, and stored organic material
How common
Common

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