Dry Fish and Dried Food Beetles: Prevention Tips

Dried fish and dried foods attract specific beetles.

The short answer

Larder, hide and other beetles infest dried fish, meat and protein foods. Store in airtight containers in cool dry places, refrigerate where suitable, buy small quantities, inspect regularly, clean spills and discard infested items.

Prevent

1. Airtight containers.
2. Cool, dry storage.
3. Refrigeration where suitable.
4. Frequent inspection.
5. Clean the area.

If found

• Discard infested items.
• Wash containers.
• Check nearby foods.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Are the beetles harmful?

They spoil food.

Does sun-drying help?

Dry well but protect from flies.

Why holes in dry fish?

Larvae.

Where to store?

Cool, dry, sealed.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on pantry and fabric pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full pantry and fabric pest control guide for Bangalore.