Sawtoothed Grain Beetle

Natural Habitat

These beetles are common pantry pests and are found worldwide in human dwellings, food processing plants, storage facilities, and grocery stores where dried food products are present. They prefer warm, humid environments.

Diet & Feeding

Sawtoothed grain beetles primarily feed on a wide variety of dried food products, including grains, cereals, flour, pasta, pet food, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chocolate, and drugs. They cannot feed on whole kernels unless the kernels are broken.

Behavior Patterns

The larva shown is in the larval stage. Larvae are typically slow-moving and are focused on feeding and growing. They often avoid light. The adults are capable of flight and are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Sawtoothed grain beetles are significant pests of stored food products, causing contamination and damage to food, leading to economic losses. While they do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, their presence can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Benefits: No known direct benefits to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 9/2/2025