Drugstore Beetle
Stegobium paniceum
Drugstore beetle (Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org)
Drugstore beetle (Natasha Wright, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org)
Drugstore beetle damage (USDA Forest Service Wood Products Insect Lab, Bugwood.org)
Identification
- 1/10 inch long
- reddish brown to brown
- head not visible from above
- antennae with 3-segmented club
- rows of deep pits on wing covers distinguish from cigarette beetle
- larvae: c-shaped, white and hairy larvae
Nesting Habits
- lay eggs in food materials
- larvae pupate within food materials
Diet
- larvae eat nearly anything but prefer bread, flour, meal, spices and pet foods
- adults do not feed on food, but can chew through food packaging
Significance
- common pest of stored food in homes and storehouses
- attack a variety of nonfood products
- can cause damage to books
IPM Recommendations
- Improve sanitation procedures in affected areas.
- Inspect all incoming food items for pests.
- Store all susceptible food items in pest-proof containers.
- Dispose of infested food items.
- Keep food in regular rotation.