Golden Spider Beetles

Latin Name: Niptus hololeucus

Months of Activity: June - November

This beetle is very similar to the Australian Spider Beetle but what makes this beetle stand out are the golden hairs which cover it's back and head.

In addition to the usual wide variety of products that are generally attacked by spider beetles, the adults and larvae of this species feed on woolens, linens, and natural silks, particularly if the fabrics are soiled with grease.

The beetles are most commonly found in vegetable and animal debris in warehouses, poorly kept storerooms, cellars, and old houses, and sometimes occur in considerable numbers. They shun light, but move actively in the dark.

Appearance

• The adult golden spider beetle is between 3.5-5mm long and has a brown body which is covered in golden-yellow hair. The adults have biting mouthparts, a stout body and 6 long thin legs. Spider beetles cannot fly.
• The larvae grow up to 3.5mm long, are yellow-white in colour with a brown head and have a curled shape with six legs.

Lifecycle

The female golden spider beetle lays 20-40 eggs from which the larvae hatch after 11-30 days. The larval stage lasts for 150-250 days and pupation takes place in rather loose cocoons consisting of a gland secretion. Pupation takes about 18-26 days, after which the adults live for up to 9 months.

Pest Control

A variety of trapping methods can be used to measure the extent of an infestation. All infested commodities should be destroyed or fumigated, and insecticides should be applied to the fabric of food stores. Grain protectants can also be used as an alternative to insecticides.

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