(Latin: Sitophilus oryzae)
This beetle is a little smaller than the grain weevil, and can be recognized by the four reddish spots on the elytra, which cover a pair of functional wings.
This is one of the most serious pests of cereal crops in the tropics and subtropics.
It is often brought to northern Europe and is not uncommonly found in kitchen cupboards, usually in a packet of rice (see page 93).
As in the grain weevil it lays an egg in a small groove which it has gnawed in a rice grain.
The larva lives and feeds in the grain.
This beetle does not attack other foodstuffs, and as it requires warmth it does not survive the winter in unheated stores.
Latest posts by Henri Mourier (see all)