Copra Beetle Larvae (Necrobia rufipes)
Biology: The copra beetle is so called because it feeds mainly on copra (dried flesh of the coconut) and animal products such as ham, sausage, cheese, skins, fish meal, dried egg, etc. The shiny green-blue beetle can fly and is 4-7 mm long. The legs and base of the feelers are coloured red. The slender larvae are white at first, later grey-brown and up to 10 mm long. This beetle is frequently found near ports, shipping being the usual route of introduction.
Damage: The beetles, and above all the voracious larvae cause damage by feeding on copra, animal products and plant products such as dried fruit and expeller cake.