Long-headed plaster beetle

The long-headed plaster beetle (Corticaria elongata) is a small insect species belonging to the family Latridiidae, within the order Coleoptera. These beetles are commonly referred to as "plaster beetles" or "mold beetles" because they thrive in environments where fungal growth occurs, often in buildings or grain storage facilities with high humidity.

This pest is primarily found infesting stored agricultural products, including grains, flour, cereals, dried fruits, and seeds. It does not typically attack healthy, dry grain, but rather consumes the microscopic molds and fungi that develop on the surface of grain that has become damp or improperly stored.

The biological cycle of Corticaria elongata is intrinsically linked to the presence of mold. The beetles lay eggs in substrates rich in fungal spores and hyphae. As larvae and adults feed on these fungi, they reproduce rapidly in damp conditions, making their presence a reliable indicator of moisture problems within a warehouse or silo.

The damage caused by these beetles is largely qualitative. While they do not consume massive quantities of grain like some primary pests, they contaminate the stored products with their waste, cast skins, and fungal spores. This infestation reduces the market value of the crop and creates conditions for further degradation of the stored mass through heating and caking.

To control and prevent infestations of Corticaria elongata, strict moisture management is essential. Agricultural facility managers should focus on:

• Reducing the moisture content of grain to levels below 14% to inhibit fungal growth.
• Improving air circulation and ventilation in storage areas.
• Maintaining high sanitary standards by removing spilled grain and dust.
• Implementing regular fumigation or the use of approved residual insecticides in empty silos.