
Community identification
Cigarette beetle
Lasioderma serricorne
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera, Family: Ptinidae
- Size
- 2 to 3 millimeters (about 1/8 inch) in length
Natural Habitat
Pantropical and common in indoor environments such as pantries, kitchens, and warehouses where dried plant materials are stored.
Diet & Feeding
Highly varied; feeds on dried tobacco, flour, cereal, dry pet food, spices, and occasionally non-food items like leather or book bindings.
Behavior Patterns
Strong fliers that are attracted to dim light. Adults are most active at dusk and night; they do not feed but live for 2 to 4 weeks to reproduce.
Risks & Benefits
A major pest of stored products that can cause significant economic damage in homes and warehouses. They generally do not bite or pose direct health risks to humans.