Evaluation of relation with pet food and first record of Necrobia rufipes (De Geer, 1775) (Coleoptera: Cleridae) associated with pet clinic in Turkey

Abstract

The purpose of this study, Necrobia rufipes (N. rufipes), mainly related to forensic entomology, is to report clinical infestations caused by pet food. As a result of the evaluation of the infested materials which came to our laboratory, clinical observations were made to understand the intensity of infestations in the region and to learn their origins. As a result, dry cat and dog foods were determined to be responsible for infestation. During the observations, intense insect populations were found, especially in pet food bowl and bags. The related insects have caused considerable loss of product and significant economic damage in infested pouches. Reports on clinical infestations from N. rufipes are quite rare. However, considering the high protein content of cat and dog foods present in clinic and the nutritional habits of these insects, the possibility of having clinic infestations from N. rufipes should not be ignored. Many factors, such as lack of sanitation, can play an important role in infesting foods with insects. With the early detection and control of the invasions, it is possible to prevent the spread of pests throughout the clinic and to maintain the wholeness and quality of food products.

Necrobia rufipes (De Geer) Infestation in Pet Food Packaging and Setup of a Monitoring Trap

“…In recent years, the clerid beetle N. rufipes has been increasingly reported as a pest associated with pet food [4,[8][9][10]. The investigations carried out in this study give, for the first time, important…”

“…In recent years, the clerid beetle N. rufipes has been increasingly reported as a pest associated with pet food [ 4 , 8 , 9 , 10 ]. The investigations carried out in this study give, for the first time, important information on the behavior of this species related to post-production infestation of pet food packaging and provide the basis for a monitoring device for this pest.…”

“…Among these species, the red-legged ham beetle, N. rufipes , generally found in stored commodities such as copra (dried coconut), cheese, dried fish, ham, and other products rich in protein content, in recent years has caused increasing damage to pet food products, with growing concerns from producers [ 8 , 9 , 10 ]. This pest has a worldwide distribution range, and its occurrence has been recorded in many countries of South, Central, and North America; Europe; Asia; and Oceania [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. Recently, pet food infestations caused by this beetle at retailers have been reported throughout several Mediterranean countries [ 13 ].…”