Insect identification key
An insect key is a tool used to determine the species of a given insect. Typically, insect keys are designed as dichotomous, or paired, couplets. A couplet is a choice between 2 options based on a description of a particular feature. Example: Insect size, antennae shape.
How to use an insect key
A user chooses which option best matches the insect being identified. This choice leads to another couplet. The process continues until the user reaches a final couplet that identifies the insect.
To use the key effectively, it helps if the user understands insect morphology (structure and body parts).
A glossary of insect terms is also available.
Stored product beetles found in Canada
Alternate format
The PDF format is based on Stored product beetles in Canada identification key and does not provide the full functionality of the web version. It is provided for the convenience of users requiring a printable version of the identification key.