Sawtoothed Grain Beetle

Natural Habitat

Pantry pest, found in stored food products like grains, cereals, pasta, dried fruits, nuts, pet food, and spices. Prefers warm, humid environments.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on a wide variety of dried food products, including grains (whole and processed), flour, cereals, pasta, dried fruits, nuts, candy, spices, and pet food. They cannot feed on whole, undamaged grains but thrive on damaged ones or processed products.

Behavior Patterns

These beetles are small, flat, and reddish-brown. They are active and can rapidly infest stored food products. Both adult beetles and their larvae cause damage. They do not fly. They can reproduce quickly under favorable conditions, with a life cycle from egg to adult taking about 30-50 days.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Primarily a pantry pest, causing contamination and damage to stored food products. They do not bite or transmit diseases, but their presence can render food unpalatable and unmarketable. Infestations can lead to significant economic losses for producers and consumers. Benefits: None known by humans.

Identified on: 10/14/2025