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Granary Weevil (Sitophilus granarius), also known as the wheat weevil or grain weevil, is a species of weevil that infests stored grain and a variety of crops. It is a common pest in many places around the world, causing significant damage to harvested stored grains and thus posing a serious threat to food security.

Description

The granary weevil is a small, dark brown insect measuring approximately 3-5mm in length. It has a long snout and elbowed antennae. The body of the granary weevil is nearly cylindrical, a characteristic that distinguishes it from the closely related rice weevil, which has a more distinctly tapered body shape.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the granary weevil begins when the female weevil bores a hole into a grain kernel and lays her eggs inside. The larvae develop within the grain, feeding on the starchy content. After pupation, the adult weevil emerges from the grain kernel. The entire life cycle takes about 4-5 weeks under optimal conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

Granary weevils are cosmopolitan pests, found in all parts of the world where grain is stored. They prefer warm, humid conditions and are most commonly found in stored grain facilities such as granaries, warehouses, and household pantries.

Economic Impact

Granary weevils are a major pest of stored grain worldwide. They cause significant economic losses by reducing the weight and quality of the grain. In addition to direct damage, infestations can lead to secondary problems such as mold growth and the attraction of other pests.

Control

Control of granary weevils involves a combination of sanitation, temperature regulation, and chemical treatments. Regular cleaning of storage facilities can help to remove infested grains and prevent re-infestation. Cold or heat treatments can be used to kill weevils in infested grain. Chemical insecticides are also commonly used, although resistance can be a problem.

See Also

• Rice weevil
• Stored product pests
• Integrated pest management