Khapra Beetle Program Manual 
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First Edition Issued 2022 
Contents 

Khapra Beetle 

Program 

Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-1

Contents TOC-1

List of Figures LOF-1

Acknowledgments Acknowledgements-1

Introduction 1-1

Survey and Trapping 2-1

Identification 3-1

Index Index-1

01/2022-01 Khapra Beetle Program Manual TOC-1 
TOC-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 01/2022-01 
List of Figures 

Khapra Beetle 

Program 

Figure 2-1 Khapra Beetle Wall-Mounted Trap 2-4 

Figure 2-2 Khapra Beetle Pheromone Lure 2-4 

Figure 2-3 Organic Wheat Germ 2-5 

Figure 2-4 Plastic Collection Tray with Wheat Germ 2-5 

Figure 2-5 Decoy Aerial Trap with Khapra Beetle Pheromone Lure 2-5 

Figure 2-6 Correct Placement of Khapra Beetle Trap 2-6 

Figure 2-7 Wall Trap with Back Entry Tabs Opened Correctly 2-7 

01/2022-01 Khapra Beetle Program Manual LOF-1 
List of Figures 

LOF-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 01/2022-01 
Acknowledgments 

Khapra Beetle 

Program 

Cover photograph courtesy of USDA-APHIS-PPQ Sindhu Krishnankutty. 

01/2022-01 Khapra Beetle Program Manual Acknowledgements-1 
Acknowledgments 

Acknowledgements-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 01/2022-01 
Introduction Chapter 

1 

Contents 

Purpose of the Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-2

Background 1-2 

Biology and Ecology 1-2 

Lifecycle 1-2 

Infestations 1-3 

Pathways of Introduction and Dispersal 1-4 

Conventions 1-4 

Advisories 1-4 

Boldface 1-5 

Bullets 1-5 

Change Bars 1-5 

Chapters 1-5 

Contents 1-5 

Control Data 1-5 

Examples 1-5 

Heading Levels 1-6 

Hypertext Links (Highlighting) to Tables, Figures, and Headings 1-6 

Indentions 1-6 

Italics 1-6 

Numbering Scheme 1-6 

Transmittal Number 1-6 

Using the Manual 1-7 

Reporting Issues With or Suggestions For the Khapra Beetle Program 

Manual 1-7

Manual Updates 1-7 

Ordering Additional Manuals and Revisions 1-8 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-1 
Introduction 

Purpose of the Khapra Beetle Program Manual 

Purpose of the Khapra Beetle Program Manual 

The APHIS PPQ Khapra Beetle Program Manual is intended to provide 

information to guide PPQ Field Operations and cooperators in the following 

areas: 

Survey and sampling to detect isolated infestations at low population 

levels 

Eradication efforts on isolated infestations 

Prevention of human assisted spread of khapra beetle to non-infested 

areas 

Background 

The khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), 

is a destructive pest of grain, seeds, and stored food products. Additionally, 

food products infested by khapra beetle pose a threat to humans as hairs and 

cast skins from larvae are known allergens and a respiratory hazard. Originally 

native to the Indian subcontinent, it has expanded into other parts of Asia, 

Africa, and Europe. Khapra beetle and associated host material are regulated 

by the USDA under authority of 7 CFR 319.75. While khapra beetle is not 

known to occur in the United States, interceptions at ports of entry are common 

and the pest risk potential of khapra beetle is high. If khapra beetle were to 

become established in the United States, it would pose a significant threat to 

the domestic grain industry in terms of yield losses, but more consequentially it 

would impact the $10+ billion United States grain export market. The goal of 

routine survey efforts is to monitor high risk areas for detection of isolated 

populations to help ensure the United States remains free from khapra beetle. 

Biology and Ecology 

Lifecycle 

Khapra beetle has four life stages; egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females may lay 

up to 100 eggs during their lifetime. Eggs are very small and translucent, 

making them difficult to detect. Eggs usually hatch in 3-10 days, depending on 

temperature and humidity. 

Khapra beetle spends most of its life in the larval stage and nearly all of its 

feeding occurs during this stage. The number of larval instars is indeterminate, 

as development is influenced by temperature, food availability, and crowding. 

Under favorable conditions, the larval period is 20-40 days. However, khapra 

beetle frequently enter dormancy during later stages of larval development. 

1-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Introduction 

Biology and Ecology 

During dormancy, development is paused in response to adverse conditions 

such as overcrowding, low temperature, low food quality, and/or lack of food. 

The dormancy of khapra beetle larvae is usually referred to as a facultative 

diapause, where molting and feeding occur sporadically, but development to 

the pupal stage does not occur. In the absence of food, diapausing larvae have 

been observed to survive for several years. 

The pupation period usually lasts 4-6 days. The adult is short lived, typically 

for 1-2 weeks. One to ten generations of khapra beetle may occur per year. 

Under favorable conditions, khapra beetle can complete development in as 

little as 26 days. Under less favorable conditions, diapause in the late larval 

stage is common though larvae may resume development and pupate when 

favorable conditions return. 

Khapra beetle is best suited to hot and dry climates, but they are tolerant of 

both extreme cold and heat. Optimal temperature for development is around 

30 °C. At temperatures below 20 °C or above 35 °C development is halted. 

Khapra beetle endures adverse conditions as late stage larvae in diapause. 

Diapausing larvae are less susceptible to fumigation treatments due to reduced 

metabolic activity. They can also be difficult to control with contact 

insecticides as they frequently seek refuge in cracks or crevices that are hard to 

reach. 

Infestations 

Khapra beetles live in stored grains and other plant and animal products. Hairy 

larval skins (exuviae) found in grain can indicate that there is an infestation. 

Live insects are usually in the top 50 cm of the grain pile. Larvae tend to 

aggregate in cracks, corners, and other tight spaces in storage facilities, 

shipping containers, or other structures without large available food sources. 

Khapra beetles can feed on a wide variety of dried plant and animal products. 

This includes important commercially traded grains and other commodities 

such as wheat, barley, rice, peanut, cowpea, dried distillers grain, and sorghum. 

Khapra beetles may also feed on processed products such as dog food, protein 

drink mix, ground grains, tapioca, dried fruits, pasta, and cereal among others. 

Animal products like powdered milk, dried blood, dried animal skins, and fish 

meal are also known to serve as food sources. 

Khapra beetle population growth is dependent upon host food, as well as 

environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) and crowding. Larval 

development is usually faster when foods with higher protein content are 

available. For example, population growth is typically higher on wheat 

compared to barley or rice. Similarly, processed foods such as dog food or 

protein shake mix can provide excellent food sources for khapra beetle. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-3 
Introduction 

Pathways of Introduction and Dispersal 

Pathways of Introduction and Dispersal 

Khapra beetle has been intercepted at ports of entry in mail, stores, general 

cargo, and permit cargo; however, the majority are found in passenger 

baggage. In recent years, the number of detections of khapra beetle has 

increased, prompting greater concern for the potential of establishment. This is 

due to an increase in the number of travelers from countries where khapra 

beetle is present, along with efforts to train inspectors and improve targeting of 

inspections. 

Khapra beetle adults are flightless, and the movement of adults and larvae is 

limited to short distances. Infestation of grain stores or other products from the 

surrounding environment is unlikely. Therefore, the spread of khapra beetle to 

new areas typically occurs through the movement of host commodities. Spread 

at a local level may occur on items such as bags, clothing, or in stored 

products. Over long distances, the pest is spread mostly by humans in 

commerce and trade, through household moves, and in personal baggage 

containing dried food products. Movement of grain and seed products or 

contaminated machinery can also spread khapra beetle. These infestations 

present the greatest risk for spread into the domestic grain supply where trade 

could be impacted. 

Conventions 

Conventions are established by custom and are widely recognized and 

accepted. Major conventions used in this manual follow. 

Advisories 

Advisories are used throughout the Khapra Beetle Program Manual to bring 

important information to the user’s attention. Please carefully review each 

advisory. The definitions coincide with the American National Standards 

Institute (ANSI) and are in the format shown below. 

! DANGER 

 

The danger message is used in the event of imminent risk of death or serious injury 

! WARNING 

The warning message is used in the event of possible risk of serious injury. 

! CAUTION 

The caution message is used for tasks involving minor to moderate risk of injury. 

1-4 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Introduction 

Conventions 

NOTICE 

The notice message is used to alert a reader of important information or Agency 

policy. 

SAFETY 

The safety message is used for general instructions or reminders related to safety. 

Boldface 

Boldface type is used to emphasize important words throughout this manual. 

These words include, but are not limited to: always; cannot; do not; does not; 

except; lacks; must; neither; never; no; nor; not; only; other than. 

Bullets 

Bulleted lists indicate that there is no order to the information listed. 

Change Bars 

Black change bars are used to indicate changes and appear on the revised 

pages. Unfortunately, change bars do not always appear when text is merely 

deleted. Change bars from the previous update are deleted when the chapter or 

appendix is revised. 

Chapters 

This manual contains the following chapters: Introduction; Identification; and 

Survey and Trapping. 

Contents 

Each chapter has a table of contents listing the heading titles within. 

Control Data 

Control data is located at the top and bottom of each page to help manual users 

keep track of where they are in the manual and to be aware of updates to 

specific chapters, sections, appendixes, etc., in the manual. At the top of each 

page is the chapter title and first-level heading for that page. At the bottom of 

each page is the transmittal number (month, year, number), title of the manual, 

page number, and unit responsible for content. 

To track revisions to the Khapra Beetle Program Manual, use the Control 

Data. 

Examples 

Examples are used to clarify a point by applying it to a real-world situation. 

Examples always appear in boxes as a means of visually separating them from 

the other information contained on the page. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-5 
Introduction 

Conventions 

EXAMPLE Examples are graphically placed boxes within the text as a means of 

visually separating information from other information contained on 

the page. Examples always appear in a box like this. 

Heading Levels 

Within each chapter there are four heading levels. The first-level heading is 

indicated by a horizontal line across both the left and right columns with the 

heading language across the left and right columns directly underneath. The 

second- and third-level headings are inside the margined text area with the 

body text following underneath. The fourth-level heading is inside the 

margined text area followed by a period and leading into the text. 

Hypertext Links (Highlighting) to Tables, Figures, and 

Headings 

Figures, headings, and tables are cross-referenced in the body of the manual 

and are highlighted in blue hypertext type. 

EXAMPLE See Table 1-1 if you want to report an issue with the manual or have 

a suggestion for improving the manual. 

Indentions 

Entry requirements summarized from CFRs, import permits, or policies are 

indented on the page. 

Italics 

Scientific names are italicized throughout the Khapra Beetle Program Manual. 

Numbering Scheme 

A two-level numbering scheme is used in this manual for pages, tables, and 

figures. The first number represents the chapter. The second number represents 

the page, table, or figure. This numbering scheme allows for identifying and 

updating. Dashes are used in page numbering to differentiate page numbers 

from decimal points. 

Transmittal Number 

The transmittal number contains the month, year, and a consecutively issued 

number (beginning with -01 for the first edition and increasing consecutively 

for each update to the chapter). The transmittal number is only changed when 

specific chapter sections, appendixes, figures, tables, glossary, or index is 

updated. If no changes are made, the transmittal number remains unchanged. 

The transmittal number only changes for the entire manual when a new edition 

is issued or changes are made to the entire manual. 

1-6 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
 

Introduction 

Using the Manual 

EXAMPLE 01/2021-01 is the transmittal number for this update and is located in 

the control data on the pages in this chapter. 

01 is the month the updated was issued. 

2021 is the year the update was issued. 

01 is the edition number (the entire manual has been reformatted). 

Using the Manual 

Review the contents of this manual to get a feel for the scope of material 

covered. Glance through the section to become familiar with the organization 

of the information. Use the tables of contents that follow each tab to find the 

needed information. If the tables of contents are not specific enough, turn to 

the index to find the topic and corresponding page number. 

EXAMPLE To find information on trapping, see Trapping on page 2-3. 

Reporting Issues With or Suggestions For the Khapra Beetle 

Program Manual 

Use Table 1-1 to determine where to report issues, disagreements, or 

improvements that directly affect the contents of the Khapra Beetle Program 

Manual. 

Table 1-1 Reporting Issues With or Suggestions for the Khapra Beetle Program 

Manual 

If you: Then: 

 Are unable to access the online 

manual 

 Have a suggestion for improving 

the format (layout, spelling, etc.) 

CONTACT PPQ Manuals Unit at 240-529-0350 or 

email PPQ.IRM.ISMU.Manuals.Feedback@usda.gov 

Disagree with a policy or procedure, 

or have an urgent situation requiring 

an immediate response 

CONTACT anne.lebrun@usda.gov 

Manual Updates 

The PPQ Manuals Unit electronically issues and maintains manuals on the 

Manuals Unit Web site. The online manuals contain the most up-to-date 

information. Immediate update revisions to the manual are issued and 

distributed via email. 

Each immediate update contains the following information: 

Link to access and download the online manual 

List of the revised page/table numbers 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 1-7 
Introduction 

Using the Manual 

Purpose of the revision(s) 

Transmittal number 

Ordering Additional Manuals and Revisions 

Although using the online manuals is the preferred method, APHIS employees 

may order hard copies of manuals from the APHIS Printing, Distribution, and 

Mail Services Center in Riverdale, Maryland. Visit the Riverdale Print Shop 

Web site for detailed information and printing costs. The Manuals Unit is not 

responsible for printing costs. 

1-8 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Survey and Trapping Chapter 

2 

Contents 

Introduction 2-1 

Selecting Survey Locations 2-1 

Trapping 2-3 

Trap Placement 2-3 

When to Trap 2-3 

Trapping Supplies 2-3 

Additional Supplies (Locally Available) 2-5 

Trap Set Up 2-6 

Areas to Avoid 2-7 

Height 2-7 

Density 2-8 

Survey Supply Procurement 2-8 

Product Names in the IPHIS Survey Supply Ordering System 2-8 

Trap Servicing and Sample Collection 2-8 

Sample Preparation and Storage 2-9 

Survey Records 2-9 

Introduction 

This chapter provides instruction on how to complete surveys for khapra 

beetle. Early detection surveys are necessary to find small khapra beetle 

populations in a timely manner. This ensures that PPQ is able to eradicate the 

infestation before khapra beetle becomes established locally and ensures trade 

is not impacted. Delimiting surveys are used to define the extent of infestation 

and to guide programmatic response. Monitoring surveys are used to determine 

if treatment is successful and to ensure that the location remains free of khapra 

beetle for an established amount of time after the initial find. 

To ensure that khapra beetle surveys 1) detect early populations and 2) provide 

reliable negative survey data, it is critical that the surveyor follows the 

guidance in this chapter and the Identification chapter. This chapter provides 

guidance on how to properly plan and conduct a khapra beetle survey. 

Selecting Survey Locations 

Use the following information to select the highest risk locations to survey in 

your state. Since staffing resources are often limited, you may need to rotate 

surveys through different locations each year. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 2-1 
Survey and Trapping 

Selecting Survey Locations 

Use locally available resources to assist you in identifying high risk sites of 

introduction/interception. Local PPQ Smuggling Interdiction and Trade 

Compliance (SITC) staff are a good resource to identify high risk products, as 

well as importers, distributors, and retailers in the area. Your local U.S. 

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) contacts can assist with finding high 

risk locations as well. In addition, you may want to include locations that have 

received Emergency Action Notifications (EANs) for khapra beetle. 

Use the following list as a starting point to identify areas of potential risk in 

your state in conjunction with the input from your local SITC and CBP 

counterparts: 

A commercial location that is the known, intended destination for a 

shipment of host material that CBP found to be infested by live khapra 

beetle at the port of entry. Previous shipments from the same supplier are 

possible and may have entered without inspection. 

Air cargo warehouses at international airports. These warehouses belong 

to individual airlines that service that airport. The warehouses often 

receive household goods and other materials that may be a pathway. 

Coffee roasters that import coffee beans in used burlap bags from khapra 

beetle countries 

Distribution warehouses for companies that sell high-risk merchandise 

Express consignment facilities (DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.) or other facilities 

where potentially infested materials may pass through 

Grain dealers. If there is a known pathway for introduction of khapra 

beetle, or if in proximity to a known or possible pathway, then these sites 

may be considered much higher risk. 

Importers of brassware or other products from khapra beetle countries 

packaged in burlap bags 

Importers of bulk grains and spices from khapra beetle countries. 

Importers who repackage these products within the warehouse for retail 

distribution are highest risk. Examples include but are not limited to dried 

chickpeas, cracked corn, cracked or bulghur wheat, and hibiscus. 

Importers of manufactured, processed, or otherwise pre-packaged host 

material that is ready for retail sale from khapra beetle countries 

Military facilities where returning luggage or household goods are stored 

Retail markets selling materials outlined above 

Transload facilities, locations where container cargo is transferred from 

one load unit to another. When a container is transloaded, it usually 

occurs at a facility that is close to a port terminal. A container will be 

taken into a facility and transferred to a domestic container or truckload. 

2-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Survey and Trapping 

Trapping 

Trapping 

Trap Placement 

Survey a new facility with a company representative, if possible, to identify 

locations before placing traps. Check exit and entry areas, as well as any 

storage locations on the premises. Observe the movement of products, 

containers, and/or people handling products which could have been exposed to 

khapra beetle. 

Be alert for cartons, burlap or jute sacks, debris, woodwork, cracks, loose 

plaster, loose paint, and other such hiding places. Carefully inspect rodent bait 

stations and other such traps with grain or cereal. Khapra beetle are attracted to 

dirty grain and storage or handling facilities; conversely, sanitary conditions 

are a deterrent. Areas of low light are also favorable for khapra beetle. 

In empty bins and warehouses, larvae are likely to be in or on ledges, cracks in 

the floor or walls, old cartons, rags, sacks, newspapers, scrap lumber, or other 

debris. Elevator tunnels also serve as hiding places for khapra beetle larvae. 

When inspecting sacked material, the ears and seams of bags are common 

hiding places for the beetle and should be inspected. In bulk storage where 

heavy infestations may occur, larvae tend to congregate in the surface grain 

and on or near the walls. Look for cast larval skins as a sign of an active 

infestation. 

When to Trap 

Conduct surveys when average temperatures are above 70 oF in the trapping 

environment. Survey outdoor areas throughout the warm season. 

Environmental conditions may be less severe than prevailing weather 

conditions in areas immediately surrounding ports and grain processing and 

storage facilities. Use practical judgment to determine if temperatures are 

warm enough. In more temperate areas, conduct surveys from mid-May 

through mid-September. In heated warehouses, food storage and processing 

areas, dwellings, and other moderated environments, surveys with traps are 

appropriate at any time of year. 

Trapping Supplies 

The Khapra Beetle Wall Mount Trap Kit contains all supplies necessary to 

complete a khapra beetle survey. The kit includes: 

Six khapra beetle wall-mounted traps (Figure 2-1) 

Seven khapra beetle pheromone lures (Figure 2-2) 

Organic wheat germ (the food bait for the beetle) (Figure 2-3) 

Plastic collection tray for wheat germ (Figure 2-4) 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 2-3 
Survey and Trapping 

Trapping 

One decoy sticky trap (Figure 2-5) 

The wall mount traps may be re-used. 

Use the decoy aerial trap to capture warehouse beetle, Trogoderma variabile 

Ballion adults and minimize their numbers in khapra beetle wall traps. The 

warehouse beetle is often present in warehouses and it is difficult to distinguish 

between warehouse beetle and khapra beetle. Since both species are attracted 

to the same pheromone lure, warehouse beetles may overwhelm khapra beetle 

traps. However, since the warehouse beetle is a strong flyer, unlike khapra 

beetle, which does not fly, use the aerial decoy trap to minimize or exclude 

warehouse beetles collected in khapra beetle wall traps. 

Fit the decoy aerial trap with one of the khapra beetle lures and hang it high in 

the open head space of the building. Use one aerial trap for every five to six 

khapra beetle wall-mounted traps. 

Figure 2-1 Khapra Beetle Wall-Mounted Trap 

Figure 2-2 Khapra Beetle Pheromone Lure 

2-4 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Survey and Trapping 

Trapping 

Figure 2-3 Organic Wheat Germ 

Figure 2-4 Plastic Collection Tray with Wheat Germ 

Figure 2-5 Decoy Aerial Trap with Khapra Beetle Pheromone Lure 

Additional Supplies (Locally Available) 

Aspirator or vacuum collection device (may be sourced from vendors 

such as BioQuip Products) 

Brightly colored flagging (to help you find traps for return visits) 

Cooler with ice packs 

Disposable gloves (for sweep sampling) 

Double-sided tape or another adhesive (Gorilla brand tape works well) 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 2-5 
 

Survey and Trapping 

Trapping 

Dust mask (for sweep sampling) 

Forceps 

Hard hat 

Headlamp 

Labels for samples 

Orange safety vest 

Permanent marker 

Pencil 

Plastic bins to store and provide easy access to equipment 

Plastic re-sealable bags (sandwich and gallon sized) 

Small paintbrush for brushing insects out of the trap 

Wipes or paper towels to clean the wall surface before hanging traps 

Trap Set Up 

Follow the instructions from the manufacturer that are included with the trap 

kit to assemble the traps. Use a permanent marker to label each trap with a 

unique identification number, for instance County Code-Facility Code-Trap 

Number. Use the wall mount trap inside and outside structures. Place traps 

around the inside of exterior walls and along interior walls of structures under 

investigation (Figure 2-6). Pay special attention to cracks in the walls and 

walls made of porous materials like cement blocks. Cracks may serve as 

pathways for insect movement. If possible, place a trap over a wall crack if one 

is found. 

Figure 2-6 Correct Placement of Khapra Beetle Trap 

Clean the wall thoroughly before attaching the trap to the wall. An alcohol prep 

pad or paper towel soaked with ethanol works well to clean the wall. Allow the 

wall to dry before affixing the trap to the wall. You may use any locally 

available double-sided foam tape (Gorilla brand, 3M, double-sided foam tape, 

etc.). Duct tape does not work well for this purpose. Replacing the tape is often 

2-6 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Survey and Trapping 

Trapping 

necessary when servicing traps. Do not cover the entry holes on the back of the 

trap. Use an opened paper clip to open the side tabs, which may not be 

perforated completely. When attaching the trap to the wall, make sure that all 

four back entry tabs are in contact with the wall and that the trap is also 

attached loosely enough so that entry holes are not closed (Figure 2-7). These 

are the places where the larvae will enter the trap. 

Be aware that the trap adhesive or tape (if used) may remove some paint from 

walls when the trap or tape is removed. Let the facility know this. You may 

need to choose a less prominent location. 

Figure 2-7 Wall Trap with Back Entry Tabs Opened Correctly 

Fill the plastic collection tray with wheat germ (Figure 2-3). Fill the dish only 

1/4 to 1/3 full, being careful not to spill wheat germ in the trap, and keeping it 

vertically oriented after assembly through attachment to the wall. 

Areas to Avoid 

Areas exposed to human activities such as sweeping, foot traffic, or frequent 

use of mechanized equipment may lead to trap loss. Placement in very oily or 

damp locations will lead to trap damage or poor adhesion. Slippery surfaces, 

such as metal, plastic, glossy painted concrete, or glass walls may inhibit 

khapra beetle movement. 

Height 

Mount traps as low as possible to maximize captures. However, in most cases, 

to avoid trap loss from maintenance activities, mount the traps at least above 

broom height. Look for locations up to about 2 feet off the floor where they can 

be easily serviced. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 2-7 
Survey and Trapping 

Survey Supply Procurement 

Density 

Allow 25 to 40 feet between traps or base the placement of traps on the layout 

of buildings. The more traps that are set, the greater the chance of finding 

khapra beetle, if present. However, if there are too many buildings and travel is 

a problem, half of the locations can be trapped in alternate years. This way, a 

building can be more intensively trapped, thus increasing the chances of 

finding khapra beetle. 

Survey Supply Procurement 

Order all traps and lures through the IPHIS Survey Supply Ordering System. 

Follow the national guidance for procuring traps and lures during the two 

ordering open periods each year. If you need immediate assistance, contact 

Laurie Morales at laurie.m.morales@usda.gov or 970-494-7535 or Darrell 

Bays at darrell.a.bays@usda.gov or 919-500-9959. 

When ordering the trap kits, be sure to order additional lures so that you can 

change out the lures during the trapping season. 

Product Names in the IPHIS Survey Supply Ordering System 

Khapra Beetle Wall Mount Trap Kit (includes 6 traps and 7 lures) 

Khapra Beetle Lure (additional lures that can be ordered) 

If you need to purchase additional organic wheat germ, it may be purchased 

locally; however, it must be organic wheat germ. 

Trap Servicing and Sample Collection 

Check traps every 1-2 weeks. When inspecting the trap, dump the contents of 

the plastic collection tray (including the wheat germ and any insects) into a 

resealable plastic bag. Inspect the trap for any other larvae that have not yet 

reached the collection tray. You can do this by tapping the tray into the plastic 

bag and using a fine paintbrush to dislodge any insects into the tray. Place a 

label on or inside each bag with a unique trap identification number, date of 

location, and facility name. Place the bag in a cooler with ice packs. 

NOTICE 

It can be difficult to remove the wheat germ tray when servicing the trap. If this is an 

issue, the entire trap may be removed at each sample collection, and a new trap 

placed. 

Refill the plastic collection tray with fresh wheat germ. Do not dispose of used 

wheat germ onsite. Even if there are no visible insects present in the wheat 

2-8 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Survey and Trapping 

Survey Records 

germ, bring the used wheat germ back to the lab/office for proper disposal. See 

the Identification chapter for further information. 

The khapra beetle lure is effective for 28 days. Change lures in both the khapra 

beetle and decoy traps every 28 days. 

When checking a trap for the last time and removing it, place the complete trap 

in a resealable plastic bag. Place a label inside the bag with a unique trap 

identification number, date, and facility name. 

Before leaving each facility, wipe down any tubs or containers that you 

brought into the facility with a lab wipe or paper towel soaked with ethanol. 

Clean your boots and clothing well before traveling in the government owned 

vehicle to avoid tracking khapra beetle life stages to other locations. 

Sample Preparation and Storage 

Keep specimens as cool as possible. Transport samples back to the lab in a 

cooler. At the lab, if samples cannot be sorted and screened immediately, store 

the samples in a freezer. Place the entire plastic bag with the trap contents in 

the freezer. For samples taken from the last trap servicing of the season, freeze 

the entire trap inside a plastic bag. This will prevent sample degradation and 

also the potential for larvae or adults to escape into the lab. Larvae otherwise 

may degrade to the point where they are difficult to find within sweepings or 

food baits. Such precautions will also help with potential visual or molecular 

identification. 

Refer to the Identification chapter for instructions on sample sorting, sample 

screening, specimen routing, and taxonomic guidelines. 

NOTICE 

 

 

The manufacturer’s instructions mention rearing out of specimens. DO NOT rear out 

suspect khapra beetle eggs or larvae from PPQ, Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS), or Plant Protection Act (PPA) 7721-funded khapra beetle surveys. 

Survey Records 

Enter survey records into the Integrated Plant Health Information System 

(IPHIS) under the template Khapra Beetle Detection. The types of data that 

will be collected are: location, date, host, activity (install, remove, or trap 

check), and lure. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 2-9 
Survey and Trapping 

Survey Records 

2-10 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Identification Chapter 

3 

Contents 

Introduction 3-1 

Sorting and Screening 3-1 

Specimen Routing and Taxonomic Guidelines 3-3 

Results Reporting 3-4 

Introduction 

This chapter provides guidance for individuals who will process trap 

collections and submit samples of suspected khapra beetles for identification. 

In addition, the chapter provides information for specimen routing and results 

reporting. 

Sorting and Screening 

Sort and screen trap collections before submitting specimens for identification. 

Sorting raw trap samples requires familiarity with insect groups and 

experience in examining specimens. Sorting is the first level of activity that 

assures samples submitted are of the correct target group of pests being 

surveyed. Sorting samples in a khapra beetle survey involves removal of nonbeetle specimens. 

Screening is removing obvious beetle larvae or adults not fitting the general 

descriptions of dermestid or similar-looking beetle families. Screening in a 

khapra beetle survey involves removal of non-dermestid beetles before 

specimens are submitted to a PPQ Identifier. 

NOTICE 

Microscopes with 10X–15X magnification are recommended for sorting and 

screening. 

Freeze samples according to the directions outlined in the Survey and Trapping 

Chapter. Pour the frozen contents of the trap onto a lab tray. Remove wheat 

germ and other debris. Remove insects that are not beetles. To the best of your 

ability, remove any beetles that are not in the Dermestidae family. When in 

doubt, keep the insect in the final sample to be submitted. 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 3-1 
Identification 

Sorting and Screening 

NOTICE 

A small paintbrush moistened with alcohol is useful for moving suspect specimens 

from the sample to a vial without damaging the specimens. 

The following linked module, developed for Customs and Border Protection 

Agriculture Specialists, provides useful background on sorting and screening 

of domestic survey samples: Dermestid Beetle Recognition and Screening Aid. 

Whenever an entire trap is removed and replaced, such as during the last trap 

servicing of the season, thoroughly inspect for larvae that may be hidden 

inside. Gently dismantle the trap and inspect the corrugated cardboard and the 

entire interior of the trap. Khapra beetle larvae are attracted to the corrugated 

cardboard, and specimens may be found within the folds of the cardboard. 

Separate the corrugated cardboard to examine for larvae within the folds. Use a 

fine paintbrush to dislodge any insects from the cardboard. If the specimen is 

caught in adhesive, cut the insect out of the trap with scissors so that only a 

small piece of trap backing remains. 

The following resources are useful guides for identification of suspect 

specimens from sorted or screened samples: 

Dermestidae Adults Self-tutorial 

Dermestidae Larvae Self-tutorial 

If the trap was not previously frozen, place the entire trap in a freezer for 15 

days before disposal or reuse after the trap has been inspected. The majority of 

household freezers maintain temperatures from -9 °F to 0 °F. 

Likewise, freeze any used wheat germ for 15 days before disposal, even if 

suspect specimens are not found. 

Place insect larvae and adults in vials with non-denatured 95% or higher ethyl 

alcohol. 

NOTICE 

 

 

 

The manufacturer’s instructions mention rearing out of specimens. DO NOT rear out 

suspect khapra beetle eggs or larvae from PPQ, Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS), or PPA Section 7721-funded khapra beetle surveys. 

3-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Identification 

Specimen Routing and Taxonomic Guidelines 

Specimen Routing and Taxonomic Guidelines 

Identification of dermestid beetle larvae or adults recovered from khapra beetle 

survey traps is difficult and requires specialized training. State or PPQ offices 

given the responsibility for this survey should consider the ability, experience, 

and expertise of those assigned to the various steps of sorting, screening, and 

identification of trap samples to ensure quality data is collected. 

Qualified state, county, or cooperating university personnel can screen and 

perform tentative identification of suspected khapra beetle specimens. The 

specimens must be forwarded with a completed PPQ Form 391 to a PPQ 

domestic identifier. (Many PPQ port identifiers are skilled at identifying 

Trogoderma granarium, but their workloads normally do not allow processing 

of domestic samples). Suspect Trogoderma spp. going to a domestic identifier 

should be entered into the Agricultural Risk Management system (ARM) by 

those who have access. The domestic identifiers can also enter these records if 

necessary for samples going forward for final confirmation. 

The domestic identifiers listed below will accept specimens for possible 

dissection, forwarding to the USDA Systematic Entomology Laboratory for 

final confirmation, and logging into the ARM database. 

Before initiating delimiting surveys and/or control activities in the United 

States, a specialist recognized by USDA-APHIS-PPQ National Identification 

Services (NIS) must confirm the specimen is khapra beetle. All Trogoderma 

species that are not khapra beetle will be recorded as Trogoderma sp. (not T. 

granarium). All specimens that NIS morphologically confirm as khapra beetle 

collected during domestic surveys require molecular confirmation. 

For confirmatory identification, follow the steps here: Request Official 

Confirmation of Preliminary Pest Identifications of Domestic Samples 

Prior to each survey season (fall/winter), confirm by phone or email with the 

identifier that they have the capacity to process your sample(s). Include the 

following information: 

Expected number of samples for the survey season 

Name and email of person who will be submitting samples 

Always notify the identifier that samples are being mailed along with the 

following information: 

The number of samples and how many adults and larvae in each 

The shipment’s tracking number 

05/2023-02 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 3-3 
Identification 

Results Reporting 

For the Eastern States, both PPQ surveyors and/or state taxonomists may send 

screened specimens (to Dermestidae) to: 

Bobby Brown 

Department of Entomology, Purdue University 

Smith Hall 

901 W. State Street 

West Lafayette, IN 47907-2089 

robert.c.brown@usda.gov 

Phone: 765-496-9673 

For the Western States, both PPQ and/or state taxonomists may send screened 

specimens (to Dermestidae) to: 

Xanthe Shirley 

USDA, APHIS, PPQ 

2771 F&B Road, Building 2, Room 105 

College Station, TX 77845 

xanthe.a.shirley@usda.gov 

Phone: 512-383-2474 

For States with no taxonomist and/or screening ability, the domestic identifiers 

can accept sorted or screened samples with prior arrangement. Contact the 

National Operations Manager for Khapra Beetle to arrange taxonomic 

assistance (feridoon.mehdizadegan@usda.gov). 

Results Reporting 

Negative results from identifiers will be communicated directly back to the 

submitter. Morphological determinations of “Trogoderma sp. (not granarium)” 

are considered negative results. No additional information is required for 

specimens with final determinations of “Trogoderma sp. (not granarium)”. 

Any suspect positives going to SEL for molecular confirmation will be 

communicated via the PPQ Domestic Diagnostics Coordinator to the khapra 

beetle cross functional working group members as well as the State Plant 

Health Director and State Plant Regulatory Official of the state of origin. 

3-4 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 05/2023-02 
Khapra Beetle 

Program 

Index 

A 

alcohol 3-2 

aspirator 2-5 

B 

beetle larvae 3-3 

biology 1-2 

brassware 2-2 

bulk grains 2-2 

bulk storage 2-3 

burlap sacks 2-3 

C 

cartons 2-3 

cement blocks 2-6 

cereal 1-3, 2-3 

coffee roasters 2-2 

colored flagging 2-5 

control activities 3-3 

cooler 2-5, 2-8 

cooperating university personnel 3-3 

corrugated cardboard 3-2 

cracks 1-3, 2-3, 2-6 

crowding 1-2, 1-3 

D 

data 3-3 

debris 2-3 

decoy sticky trap 2-4 

decoy traps 2-4, 2-5, 2-9 

delimiting surveys 2-1, 3-3 

Dermestid Beetle Recognition and Screening Aid 3-

2 

Dermestidae 1-2, 3-1, 3-4 

diapause 1-3 

disposable gloves 2-5 

distribution warehouses 2-2 

Domestic Diagnostics Coordinator 3-4 

domestic identifier 

Eastern States 3-4 

Western States 3-4 

domestic survey samples 3-2 

dormancy 1-2 

double-sided foam tape 2-6 

double-sided tape 2-5 

dust mask 2-6 

E 

ears of bags 2-3 

eggs 2-9 

elevator tunnels 2-3 

entry tabs 2-7 

environmental conditions 1-3, 2-3 

ethyl alcohol 3-2 

examining specimens 3-1 

express consignment facilities 2-2 

exterior walls 2-6 

F 

facultative diapause 1-3 

final confirmation 3-3 

final determinations 3-4 

food baits 2-3, 2-9 

freezer 2-9 

G 

gloves 2-5 

grain 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 2-3 

grain dealers 2-2 

grain pile 1-3 

grain processing facilities 2-3 

H 

hard hat 2-6 

headlamp 2-6 

hiding places 2-3 

highest risk locations 2-1 

I 

ice packs 2-5, 2-8 

identification of trap samples 3-3 

identifiers 3-4 

infestations 1-3 

Integrated Plant Health Information System 2-9 

interior walls 2-6 

international airports 2-2 

IPHIS Survey Supply Ordering System 2-8 

J 

jute sacks 2-3 

L 

labels for samples 2-6 

larvae 1-2, 1-3, 2-7, 2-8, 2-9, 3-2, 3-3 

larval instars 1-2 

larval stage 1-2 

last trap servicing of the season 2-9, 3-2 

ledges 2-3 

lifecycle 1-2 

live insects 1-3 

loose paint 2-3 

loose plaster 2-3 

lures 2-4, 2-8, 2-9 

M 

manufacturer’s instructions 2-9, 3-2 

military facilities 2-2 

molecular confirmation 3-4 

molecular identification 2-9 

molting 1-3 

monitoring surveys 2-1 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

F 

G 

H 

I 

J 

K 

L 

M 

N 

O 

P 

Q 

R 

S 

T 

U 

V 

W 

X 

Y 

Z 

01/2022-01 Khapra Beetle Program Manual Index-1 
Index 

morphological determinations 3-4 

N 

National Identification Services 3-3 

National Operations Manager 3-4 

negative results 3-4 

negative survey data 2-1 

non-infested areas 1-2 

O 

optimal temperature for development 1-3 

orange safety vest 2-6 

organic wheat germ 2-3, 2-5, 2-8 

outdoor areas 2-3 

P 

paintbrush 2-6, 2-8, 3-2 

paper towels 2-6 

pathways of introduction and dispersal 1-4 

pencil 2-6 

permanent marker 2-6 

pheromone lure 2-3, 2-4, 2-5 

placement of traps 2-8 

plastic bins 2-6 

plastic collection tray 2-3, 2-5, 2-7, 2-8 

plastic re-sealable bags 2-6 

population growth 1-3 

ports of entry 1-4 

PPQ Form 391 3-3 

PPQ port identifiers 3-3 

pre-packaged host material 2-2 

processed products 1-3 

pupation 1-3 

Purdue University 3-4 

R 

rearing out of specimens 2-9, 3-2 

resources 3-2 

results reporting 3-1, 3-4 

retail markets 2-2 

S 

safety vest 2-6 

sample collection 2-8 

sample degradation 2-9 

sample preparation and storage 2-9 

sanitary conditions 2-3 

screened samples 3-2, 3-4 

screening 3-1, 3-3 

screening ability 3-4 

selecting survey locations 2-1 

sorted samples 3-2, 3-4 

sorting 3-1, 3-3 

specimen 3-2 

specimen routing 2-9, 3-1, 3-3 

specimens 2-9, 3-3 

specimens for identification 3-1 

storage facilities 1-3, 2-3 

storage locations 2-3 

stored food products 1-2 

stored grains 1-3 

stored products 1-4 

structures under investigation 2-6 

supplies 2-5, 2-8 

survey 

locations 2-2 

records 2-9 

season 3-3 

survey supply procurement 2-8 

suspect positives 3-4 

suspect specimens 3-2 

sweep sampling 2-5 

sweepings 2-9 

Systematic Entomology Laboratory 3-3 

T 

taxonomic assistance 3-4 

taxonomic guidelines 2-9, 3-3 

temperate areas 2-3 

tentative identification 3-3 

tracking number 3-3 

transload facilities 2-2 

trap backing 3-2 

trap collections 3-1 

trap contents 2-9 

trap identification number 2-8 

trap kits 2-8 

trap loss 2-7 

trap servicing 2-8 

trap set up 2-6 

trapping 2-3 

trapping environment 2-3 

areas to avoid 2-7 

trapping supplies 2-3 

Trogoderma granarium Everts 1-2 

Trogoderma species 3-3 

Trogoderma variable 2-4 

V 

vacuum collection device 2-5 

visual identification 2-9 

W 

wall mount trap kit 2-3 

wall mounted traps 2-6 

wall-mounted traps 2-3, 2-4 

warehouse beetle 2-4 

warehouses 2-2, 2-3, 2-4 

wheat germ 2-3, 2-5, 2-7, 2-8, 3-1 

when to trap 2-3 

A 

B 

C 

D 

E 

F 

G 

H 

I 

J 

K 

L 

M 

N 

O 

P 

Q 

R 

S 

T 

U 

V 

W 

X 

Y 

Z 

Index-2 Khapra Beetle Program Manual 01/2022-01