Ball beetle

Gibbium psylloides

The spherical beetle is only 2-3 mm long and looks like a drop of dark liquid. It has spread with humans all over the world. It is occasionally found in bakeries, factories and homes on all kinds of supplies of plant and animal origin such as cereals, spices, fish meal, dog food or dried fruit. Their presence in large quantities can lead to massive impairments in the quality of living. Food supplies are also infested and contaminated by residues. Damage can also be caused by nest-building activities, which can affect adjacent materials such as fabrics and paper. Both the larvae and the adult beetles feed on (mostly dry) animal and plant remains and fruits (especially cereals), but also on textiles, wool and dead, dried insects. Although the beetles can tolerate drought well, they prefer moist places. The beetles are mainly found in old buildings with dark, damp, enclosed building elements. They are particularly prevalent in older houses with wooden beam ceilings and cavity fillings. The clutches contain around 200 eggs.