Description:
Grain weevils come in different sizes and colours. Most are slender and oval shaped insects. Depending on the species, they have body lengths ranging from 3 mm to more than 10 mm. They are usually dark in colour. They are brownish to black in colour. Some of them may have shiny hairs or spots covering various body parts. The most striking feature of grain lice is the shape of their heads. Adults of some species have a head with a thin and long proboscis. The mouth is located at the end of the proboscis.
Behaviour:
There are differences in their behaviour as well as their appearance. Some lay their eggs close to the plant in spring. When the larvae hatch, they hide in the soil and start feeding on the roots of the plant. Some larvae overwinter in the soil and emerge fully developed in spring. They feed on the plant in both larval and adult stages. They can be extremely dangerous for cereal crops. Some of them attack stored grain crops and kernels. The most common of these are rice weevils.
Prevention:
- Grain weevils in households are those that occur in dry foodstuffs.
- Insect infested items such as pasta, flour, biscuits, dried pulses and spices should be discarded immediately.
- It is also important to check the package for holes in the products to be purchased in order to prevent insect-infested materials from being transported home.
Consult a specialist for help.