Grain Beetles
Two species common in Maine are the sawtoothed (Oryzaephilus surinamensis) and the merchant (Oryzaephilus mercator) grain beetles. They are common household insect pests. Adults and larvae feed on stored animal and vegetable products. Found on grains, flour, sugar, pasta products, cereals, nuts, and dried fruit.
Sawtoothed grain beetle.
Sawtoothed grain beetle.
Merchant grain beetle.
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Identification and Control Information
- Fact Sheet: Saw-toothed Grain Beetles—Maine Forest Service
- Pest Management Fact Sheet: Grain Beetles (PDF)—University of Maine Cooperative Extension
- Fact Sheet: Sawtoothed and Merchant Grain Beetles (PDF)—West Virginia University Extension Service
- Fact Sheet: Sawtoothed Grain Beetle (PDF)—Cornell University Insect Diagnostic Laboratory
[Photos, left to right: Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org; Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org; Gary Alpert, Harvard University, Bugwood.org]