Habitat

Wide tropical and temperate distribution. One of the principal pests of bulk stored grain. Relatively cold hardy, although minimum breeding temperature is 16 - 17�c. In warm climates, this species exists outdoors, feeding on acorns and seeds.

Biology

Complete metamorphosis life cycle. Mated female may lay between 100 and 400 eggs over a period of 6 - 10 weeks. Larvae attack broken or damaged grains, usually starting with the germ. Progression from egg to adult can be completed in 20 days under optimum conditions, although 3 months is more usual.

Oryzaephilus surenamensis

Insecta     Coleoptera    Silvanidae

Image Copyright - Aventis Environmental Science 1964. Reproduced with kind permission of Aventis Environmental Science.

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Pest Status

As one of the main pests of bulk grain storage, O. surenamensis is one of the principle SPI pests. It has an extraordinarily high breeding potential which is linked to the ability of infestations to increase the temperature of their micro-habitat. This may lead to sprouting, charring and large scale economic loss.

Control

Good hygiene practices, and quarantine of inbound goods is recommended. Monitoring products and systems may be used to time treatments to best effect. Treatments may include Atmosphere control, temperature control, and Fumigation / use of residual insecticides where appropriate.