Merchant Grain Beetles

Anobiid and Lyctus species
Merchant Grain Beetle_InsectImages.org.jpg

Merchant grain beetles are typically not found in grain products, but instead like to attack cereals, cake mixes, macaroni, cookies and chocolate. Merchant grain beetles are dark brown and have six saw-like teeth on each side of their bodies. They can grow to be one-eighth of an inch long and have very flat bodies.

Pest Stats

Color

Brown

Legs

6

Shape

Narrow oval

Size

1/10

Antennae

Yes

Region

Found throughout U.S.

Habits

The merchant grain beetle's body shape allows it to crawl into packaging to eat, live and have babies.

Habitat

Merchant grain beetles are found in pantries or in food processing areas or warehouses.

Threats

Merchant grain beetles can infest stored food products and can contaminate food.