Mealworm beetle
Tenebrio molitor
15 mmAdult individual · płeć nieokreślona
Body length
Body length
od przodu głowy do końca odwłoka · bez czułków, nóg i wystających skrzydełMeasurement: side
Mealworm beetle — size comparison
The adult mealworm beetle is dark brown or black, with an elongated body and grooved wing cases. Its yellowish larvae are more often recognised than the adult i
Silhouette comparison
Length
od przodu głowy do końca odwłoka · bez czułków, nóg i wystających skrzydełScale for the stated dimensions · each animal is labelled
Measurement comparisonScale in cm
0246810
15 mm
8.56 cm
The scale compares the named dimensions. View direction and measurement points are given for each animal.
Mealworm beetle — size comparison — facts and sources
The adult mealworm beetle is dark brown or black, with an elongated body and grooved wing cases. Its yellowish larvae are more often recognised than the adult itself. The species inhabits warehouses, cellars and pantries but may also live in forest environments containing suitable organic remains.
Larvae and adults are omnivorous. They use dead plant and animal matter, grain and other dry products. Activity in buildings may continue throughout the year.
The species also played a role in the history of science: Nettie Stevens' studies of its chromosomes helped explain the mechanism of sex determination.