Grain beetles are often considered one of the most common pantry pests or storage product pests. Pantry pests will infiltrate types of dried or processed foods stored in pantries or cupboards, including cereal, flour, pasta, rice, nuts, and many others. In addition to grain beetles, other similar pests include cigarette beetles, confused flour beetles, and Indian meal moths.
Grain beetles are very tiny, usually measuring only three millimeters, and have a red or brown body that is flat and antennae. After discovering a food source, these creatures typically lay eggs nearby and will possibly spread into other packaged foods.
Can beetles bite or sting? Fortunately, these species of pests will not bite or sting humans. Containers housing beetles often develop mold from increased moisture levels and require food disposal.
Are you wondering how to get rid of grain beetles? Existing infestations are best suited for treatment by an experienced provider of Dallas pest control solutions. A licensed professional understands what attracts beetles and the best prevention methods.
The Different Types Of Grain Beetles Found In Dallas
How many types of beetles are there in this region? The Texas A&M AgriLife’s Field Guide categorizes beetles and weevils within the Coleoptera order with more than 60 various species. The two most common types of grain beetles include the merchant grain beetle (Oryzaephilus Mercator) and the saw-toothed grain beetle (Oryzaephilus surinamensis).
The saw-toothed grain beetle measures roughly 1/8 of an inch in length and has a thin body style with six legs. Despite having wings, these creatures do not fly. Aptly named, the saw-toothed grain beetle possesses “saw-like” teeth positioned in two sets of six on either side of its body.
The merchant grain beetle is similar and often confused with the saw-toothed grain beetle. The species is often a slightly darker shade of brown, and its eyes are farther back than the saw-toothed grain beetle. The merchant grain beetle has wings and can fly.
What To Know If You Find Grain Beetles In Your Stored Food
Adult grain beetles may live for one year or more and generate “worm-like” larvae that appear yellow. You should promptly dispose of any infested food products, and you’ll need to closely inspect other foods in the same pantry or cupboard for any such insect activity.
Grain beetles also plague grocery stores and both food storage and packaging facilities by often infiltrating cardboard-like material. Beyond packaged foods, these creatures might consume fabric, wallpaper, and other similar things.
Simple Tips To Prevent Future Grain Beetles In Your Cupboards
The process of preventing grain beetles begins when homeowners visit stores. Always check food packaging for any indications of a pest-related problem. Some of the other best practices include:
- After returning from the store, remove products such as cereal or flour from the original packaging and position them inside durable, sealed containers that limit access.
- Regularly check pantries and cupboards and remove any crumbs or debris.
- Develop a habit of disposing of any expired foods.
- Avoid purchasing dried foods in bulk quantities.
Homeowners should look for small, shiny white eggs within foodstuffs, which later develop into larvae. Keep in mind that prevention is the key to avoiding pantry pest beetle infestations.
The Best Way To Completely Get Rid Of A Grain Beetle Infestation
Are you wondering how to get rid of pantry pests? The experts with All-Safe Pest & Termite are well-qualified for swiftly solving problems involving grain beetles and a host of other bothersome pests that invade homes. As part of our comprehensive service offerings, we have an ongoing Safe Select program that primarily focuses on treating the home's exterior. One of our trained specialists will handle the removal of spider webs, fire ant control, and rodent baiting, which we always back with a service guarantee.
Our upgraded Protection Plus program includes all the services involved with the Safe Select option; however, we install and maintain the Termite Colony Elimination System that ensures year-round protection. Be sure to inquire about these robust and affordable pest control solutions with one of our team members.
Contact our office today for a consultation.