Merchant Grain Beetles
Anobiid and Lyctus species
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.
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.
Merchant Grain Beetle Prevention
To get rid of merchant grain beetles, discard infested packages. Clean spilled grain and food sources.
Related Content

Holiday Season Dos and Don’ts for Proper Pest Prevention
NPMA is sharing its dos and don'ts for pest prevention during the busy holiday season.

Don't Let Pests Make Your Home Theirs for the Holidays
With the holiday baking and decorating season right around the corner, NPMA is sharing advice on how to avoid potential holiday pests.

Keep Pesky Pantry Pests Out of the Kitchen This Holiday Baking Season
With the holiday season in full swing, make sure to take proper precautions to protect your home from pantry pests that can quickly ruin sweet, seasonal treats.