Firebrats
Key Features
Firebrats (Thermobia domestica) are smallish insects, between 9 and 12mm in length. They prefer, as their name suggests,
hot conditions, and are often found in boiler-rooms, or ovens in bakeries. They prefer to feed on starches and carbohydrates
with a protein content.
Biology
The female lays approx. 200 eggs in her lifetime, carefully placed in cracks and crevices, The adults can survive for many months
without eating, and can live for several years.
Distribution
They are distributed throughout most parts of the world and are normally found outdoors under rocks, leaf litter, and similar, but
are also often found indoors where they are considered pests.
Significance
They are primarily a nuisance inside the home or buildings, as they don't cause major damage, though they can contaminate
food, damage paper goods, and stain clothing. Otherwise they are mostly harmless.
Control
A planned survey using insect monitors and night inspection will reveal areas of infestation. These should then be treated with
heat stable insecticides using a full crack & crevice method. The high temperatures will reduce even the effectiveness of these
insecticides, so frequent treatments may be required to attain riddance.
