Merchant Grain Beetle - Maheu&Maheu

Merchant Grain Beetle Beetles

Elimination

The first step is to identify infested items and dispose of them. It is then suggested that you vacuum all cracks and openings in the pantry to remove all food residues and any remaining insects. Move appliances to vacuum behind them. Once done, throw the vacuum bag out or spray Maheu&Maheu Insecticide Dust in the central vacuum cleaner bin. As a final precaution, apply Maheu&Maheu Crawling Insect Killer or Maheu&Maheu Insecticide Dust in the cracks and openings of the pantry and adjacent areas. Before applying the insecticide, remove all food from the pantry. Also be sure not to wash treated surfaces for about a month. To avoid direct contact between the insecticide and foodstuffs, line the shelves with paper. Since pet food is also at risk, remember to pay it close attention, too.

Actions

Put all food in sealed containers
Vacuum pantries and under appliances (empty receptacle/dispose of bag)
Spray or treat the perimeter of the kitchen with an insecticide as well as cracks and crevices in pantries

Prevention

Store food in sealed containers

Description and development

The Merchant Grain Beetle (Oryzaephilus Mercator ) and Sawthoothed Grain Beetle (Oryzaephilus surinamensis ) are small rusty brown beetles. They are about 3 mm long and have six sawtooth-like bumps on each side of the thorax.

The female can lay 50 to 300 eggs, which she puts in cracks where food is present. The larvae will emerge 3 to 17 days later. The life cycle lasts three to ten weeks, depending on environmental conditions.

Habits

These beetles are often found in grocery stores and private homes. Their flat body shape lets them slip readily into food product packaging. They can chew through paper and cellophane. They live off cereals, grains, flour, cookies, soup and cake mixes, spices, pasta, and other similar foodstuffs.

Tips

Once the problem is solved, it is a good idea to seal all cupboard cracks and openings with an appropriate sealant. It is also strongly recommended that you store all foods at risk of contamination in airtight containers as soon as you bring them home, which will at least limit the damage in case of a new infestation.

Go to top