title: Alphitobius laevigatus
text: # Alphitobius laevigatus
  
  Alphitobius laevigatus, the black fungus beetle, is a species of darkling beetle in the family Tenebrionidae. It is found in Europe and North America.
  
  ## Use
  
  A. laevigatus is bred in large quantities for the use as feed for captive birds, reptiles, or amphibians. The larvae reach a length of up to 15 millimeters. The larvae are often marketed under the trade name buffalo worms, a name that is also used for the larvae of Alphitobius diaperinus which can lead to confusion. The species can be detected using the PCR method. In difference to A. diaperinus, A. laevigatus is not used or discussed as food for human consumption.
  
  