Grain Beetles
Oryzaephilus spp.; Tribolium spp.
Identification
- 1/8 inch long; brown to red
- use hand lens to identify
- sawtoothed grain beetle has spines on side of body behind the head
- red flour beetles have clubbed antennae and eyes split above and below the head
- other small beetles in grain also exist; consider collecting beetles for identification by USU Extension
Nesting Habits
- lay eggs on stored food products, especially of high moisture content
- prefer damaged food rather than intact grains, kernels, etc.
Diet
- highly varied
- grain products, cereals, breads, peas, beans, dried meats, macaroni, nuts, dried fruits, spices, chocolate, drugs, tobacco, herbarium, insect and museum specimens
Significance
- infest food, rendering it inedible
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 moisture low in food storage areas by improving ventilation.
- Keep food in regular rotation.