Transmission of Enteric Pathogens of Turkeys by Darkling Beetle Larva (Alphitobius diaperinus)

Abstract

Larvae of the darling beetle (lesser mealworm) were exposed to turkey feces from an enteritis-affected flock and determined to contain turkey enterovirus and rotavirus. Growth depression and increased mortality were observed in turkey poults which fed on the exposed larvae. Exposed larvae which had been surface-sterilized also produced clinical signs of enteritis after consumption by the poults, indicating that pathogens were able to survive within the larvae. This experiment demonstrated the capacity of the larva of the darkling beetle to serve as a mechanical vector for enteric pathogens of turkeys.