Firebrat

Description:

The firebrat is an insect with no wings, almost 13 mm long. Its body is like a teardrop. The head has two long antennae and the abdomen ends in 3 caudal filaments. It resembles silverfish, except that its color is beige, variegated with dark marks and light marks.

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Food:

The firebrat feeds on paper glue, cotton fabrics, rayon, silk as well as dried beef, flour, pasta, etc.

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Habits:

The firebrat prefers places where it is 32 °C and above with a humidity rate of 70% to 100%. Its favourite hiding places are going to be near heating systems, hot water tanks and any other important source of heat.

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Reproduction:

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The male produces a spermatophore (envelope containing several spermatozoa) which the female introduces into her genital tract. She will then lay 1 to 3 eggs per day which will hatch if the temperature is between 32 °C and 41 °C and with a humidity of 75% to 85%.