Bug Identifier
Saw-toothed grain beetle
Community identification

Saw-toothed grain beetle

Oryzaephilus surinamensis

Order & Family
Coleoptera, Silvanidae
Size
2.5 - 3 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in households, grocery stores, food processing plants, and anywhere dry stored food products (grains, cereals, nuts, dried fruits, pet food) are kept.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on a wide variety of dry stored food products, especially those that are processed or damaged, such as flour, cereal, oats, pasta, dried fruits, nuts, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

They are active and can quickly infest food products. Both larvae and adults cause damage. Females lay eggs directly into food products. They are often found in food packages and pantries.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include contamination and spoilage of stored food products, leading to economic losses. They do not bite or sting humans and are not known to transmit diseases. There are no notable benefits.