Common Name Lesser Grain Borer
Scientific Name Rhyzopertha dominica
Colour Dark brown to black in colour
Description The adult beetle is small, between 2.5 to 3 mm long, has a distinctive cylindrical shape, and is dark brown to black. The head, tucked underneath the thorax, is invisible when viewed from above.
Habitat Stored grain silos and warehouses
Lifecycle Eggs:
Laid in clusters as females actively bore through grains. Eggs are laid outside the kernel and young larvae bore into the grain to complete their development.
The cream coloured larvae have biting mouthparts and three pairs of legs. The young larvae are mobile but become immobile as they complete their development concealed within grain or flour
The mature fourth instar enters into an inactive pupal stage within the grain and gradually assumes the form of the adult.
When the pupal stage is completed the newly formed adult emerges from the grain by chewing through the outer grain layers. The adult beetle is long lived and is a strong flier when conditions are warm.
Type of damage Lesser grain borer mainly attack wheat, corn, rice and millet
All dust collections of walls, framework and floors should be cleared up and a suitable pesticide applied to these areas.
Pallets should always be used to store finished products and ample space should be allowed to visually inspect the goods on a regular basis.
Systematic de-infestation of pallets should be carried out regularly. Once again, only approved pesticides can be used for this purpose.