Lesser Grain Borer

Natural Habitat

Grain storage facilities, warehouses, food pantries, and mills containing stored cereal products.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly feeds on stored grains such as wheat, corn, rice, barley, and millet; it is a 'primary' pest, meaning it can bore into whole, undamaged kernels.

Behavior Patterns

The adult has a powerful set of jaws used to bore into seeds. Females lay eggs outside the grain, and the larvae eventually bore into the kernel to feed and pupate inside. They are strong fliers and are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

They pose a significant economic risk as a major pest of stored food products, causing weight loss and quality degradation of grain. They do not pose a direct health risk to humans or pets but can cause significant food waste.

Identified on: 3/9/2026