Bug Identifier
Sawtoothed Grain Beetle
Community identification

Sawtoothed Grain Beetle

Oryzaephilus surinamensis

Order & Family
Coleoptera, Silvanidae
Size
2.4 - 3.0 mm (0.09 - 0.12 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in stored food products, pantries, warehouses, and mills.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on a wide variety of stored dry foods including grains, cereals, pasta, nuts, dried fruit, pet food, and chocolate. It cannot feed on whole, undamaged grains.

Behavior Patterns

These beetles are highly active and can quickly infest food products. They are not strong flyers but can move quickly to find new food sources. Females lay eggs directly on food items. They prefer warm, humid conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Considered a significant pest of stored food products, causing contamination and damage to food, leading to economic losses. Their presence indicates poor storage conditions. Benefit: No known benefits, primarily a pest.