Drugstore Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found worldwide in temperate and tropical regions, especially within human structures like pantries, kitchens, warehouses, and food processing facilities where stored food products are available.

Diet & Feeding

They are a pantry pest with a very broad diet. Larvae and adults feed on dry, stored products including flour, bread, cereals, pasta, spices (like paprika and cayenne), dried fruits, pet food, and even non-food items like books, leather, and drugs.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are active fliers and are attracted to light. They lay eggs in suitable food sources. The larvae are small, white grubs that do the most damage by tunneling through food items. The entire life cycle can be completed in about two months in warm conditions. Adults may feign death when disturbed.

Risks & Benefits

The main risk is the contamination of stored food products, rendering them inedible. They are a common household and commercial pest. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. There are no significant benefits associated with this insect in human environments.

Identified on: 11/7/2025