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Litter Beetles (Alphitobius diaperinus)
Litter beetles, commonly called darkling beetles or poultry litter beetles, are major pests in poultry production facilities where they breed in large numbers in litter and cause multiple problems including damaging insulation, serving as reservoirs for Marek's disease and Salmonella, and reducing feed conversion efficiency in broiler flocks. Their populations can reach millions per house if left unmanaged. Integrated programs combining insecticide applications, litter management, and facility sanitation between flocks are essential for effective long-term control.