Drugstore Beetles
Drugstore beetles are small, oval, reddish-brown beetles that feed on an extraordinarily wide range of materials. They get their common name from their historical association with pharmacies, where they infested herbal medicines and dried pharmaceutical preparations. They attack dried herbs, spices, flour, cereal, pet food, dried flowers, leather, wool, and even some materials not usually considered food such as papier-mache, books, and wood. Their extremely broad diet makes them one of the most versatile stored product pests.
Species in This Group (1)
Key Behaviors
Drugstore beetles fly readily and are attracted to lights, which can make them appear far from their actual food source. Larvae bore into their food material, creating tunnels and producing fine, powdery frass. They commonly infest spices (especially red pepper and paprika), dried pet food, flour, and herbal products. Their ability to feed on non-food items like books, leather, and museum specimens makes them a concern beyond just food storage areas.
Risks & Concerns
Drugstore beetles damage and contaminate stored food, spices, and dried products. Their broad diet makes source identification challenging during inspections. They can damage valuable books, herbarium specimens, and museum collections. In commercial herb and spice operations, they are a serious quality control pest. Infestations can persist for extended periods because breeding sources are not always obvious food items.
Identification Tip
Very similar in appearance to cigarette beetles but distinguished by the striated wing covers (cigarette beetle wing covers are smooth). Drugstore beetles have clubbed antennae ending in three enlarged segments, while cigarette beetles have serrated (saw-toothed) antennae.
Need Help With Drugstore beetles?
If you're seeing signs of drugstore beetles in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.