Bug Identifier
Drugstore Beetle
Community identification

Drugstore Beetle

Stegobium paniceum

Order & Family
Coleoptera: Ptinidae
Size
2.25 to 3.5 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found globally in temperate and tropical regions, typically inhabiting pantries, warehouses, and homes where dried food is stored.

Diet & Feeding

Highly varied generalist scavenger; feeds on dried plant materials, tobacco, prescription drugs, spices, flour, and leather.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are capable of flight and are attracted to light. Larvae are the primary feeders, tunneling through food sources and creating small holes.

Risks & Benefits

A major pest of stored products that can cause significant economic damage to food supplies and museum collections; harmless to humans and pets via biting or stinging.