Alphitobius diaperinus: the potential role in the transmission of human pathogenic bacteria

Abstract: Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) is a scavenger, mould feeders and minor pest of a wide range of cereals and cereal products, especially if damp. It is also considered as a major problem worldwide in poultry industries. The insect can host and potentially transmit several microorganisms, including human pathogenic bacteria.This is the first study conducted in Italy to evaluate the carriage of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., and Staphylococcus aureus in adult of A. diaperinus in a poultry farm, by detecting their presence in the external surface, faecal and internal content of the beetles. Detection of these microorganisms was also performed for broilers, as well as for water and feed administered.Our results allow supporting the available evidences on the role of A. diaperinus in the spread within the farm environment of bacteria as Salmonella spp. and E. coli, which are responsible of human foodborne diseases. Further studies are needed to better investigate transmission of Campylobacter spp. and S. aureus and other human pathogens.