Sawtoothed Grain Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in pantries, food processing plants, and storage facilities, infesting stored food products. Highly adaptable to human environments.

Diet & Feeding

It feeds on a wide variety of dried food products, including grains, cereals, flour, pasta, dried fruits, nuts, pet food, and chocolate. It cannot feed on whole, undamaged grains.

Behavior Patterns

Sawtoothed grain beetles are very active and move quickly. They are attracted to light but generally hide in cracks and crevices during the day. Females lay eggs directly on food sources. The entire life cycle from egg to adult can be completed in about 3-4 weeks under optimal conditions (warm temperatures and high humidity). They are unable to fly.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage and contamination of stored food products, leading to economic losses and potential health risks if infested food is consumed. It does not bite or sting humans and is not known to transmit diseases. There are no notable benefits of this insect.

Identified on: 9/5/2025