The relationship between Alphitobious diaperinus and poultry litter

Darkling beetles (Alphitobius diaperinus) are a significant pest for poultry producers, posing both economic and animal health risks. When birds are removed from a poultry house, beetles often migrate from beneath the litter into the walls and insulation. This behavior leads to insulation damage, reducing the structural integrity of the house and increasing heating and cooling costs for growers.
Populations of lesser mealworms can reach extremely high densities, particularly in deep-litter broiler and turkey houses, as well as in high-rise caged layer operations. In some cases, broiler house litter may visibly quiver due to beetle activity, and up to 70% of the manure surface in high-rise houses can be covered with adult beetles (Geden & Axtell, 1987).
Poultry litter itself is a valuable resource, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace elements. It enhances both the physical and biological fertility of soil, making land application the primary method for its utilization (Bolan et al., 2010).
This study investigates the correlation between darkling beetle populations and the quality and moisture content of poultry litter. Evaluations were based on the litter’s fertilizer value and compared to beetle population densities.