Granary Weevil
Sitophilus granarius
Also known as: Wheat Weevil
The Granary Weevil is a flightless grain pest that has been associated with stored cereals for thousands of years. Like the rice weevil, larvae develop inside whole grain kernels. Because it cannot fly, it spreads exclusively through infested grain and is most common in stored grain facilities.
Identification
Size
3-5 mm
Color
Uniform dark brown to black without pale spots
Key Trait
Similar to rice weevil but uniformly dark colored and unable to fly.
Behavior & Habitat
Females bore into whole grain kernels to oviposit. Cannot fly, so spreads only through movement of infested grain. Can survive for months without food.
Habitat: Grain elevators, flour mills, and pantries where whole grain is stored.
Diet: Whole grain kernels - wheat, barley, rye, corn, and rice.
Signs of Infestation
- Dark snout beetles in grain bins or pantry containers
- Grain with exit holes and dusty debris
Risks & Damage
Destroys whole stored grain from within; heavy infestations cause significant food waste.
Prevention Tips
- 1.Store grain in sealed containers
- 2.Freeze new grain purchases for 48 hours
- 3.Inspect grain regularly for activity
Why DIY Treatment Often Falls Short
Same as rice weevil - larvae are hidden inside kernels, protected from external treatments.
Professional Treatment
Discard infested products, treat storage areas, and fumigate commercial facilities if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the granary weevil different from the rice weevil?
How long can granary weevils survive without food?
Are granary weevils a health risk?
Need Help With Granary weevil?
If you're seeing signs of granary weevil 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.
At a Glance
- Category
- Pantry Pests
- Scientific Name
- Sitophilus granarius
- Size
- 3-5 mm
- Color
- Uniform dark brown to black without pale spots
- Key Trait
- Similar to rice weevil but uniformly dark colored and unable to fly.
- Regions
- Midwest, South Central, Northeast
- Threat Level
- Low
- Risk Types
- food
- Seasonal Activity
- MarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJanFebnonelowmoderatehighpeak