Granary weevil
Sitophilus granarius (Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
The granary weevil (Sitophilus granarius) is a dark brown beetle measuring 3–4 mm, recognised by the distinctive rostrum (snout) on its head. It is a major pest of stored cereals, including wheat, rice and maize.
The female lays eggs inside the grain, and the larva develops within it, hollowing it out. It has no functional wings and spreads through the movement of stored goods.
Key characteristics
3–4 mm
Dark brown, with a prominent snout
Stored cereals (wheat, rice, maize)
Larva inside the grain
Through the movement of stored goods
Risks and spread
The granary weevil causes serious losses in stored cereals, reducing both quantity and quality.
- Product losses — Hollows out grains from within, reducing yield and value.
- Compromised quality — Contaminates stocks with droppings, residues and heat.
- Hidden spread — Development inside the grain makes early detection difficult.
Prevention
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1
Store dry cereals in sealed containers
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2
Clean silos, containers and equipment between batches
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3
Rotate stock and inspect incoming batches
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4
Keep storage areas cool and dry
Our intervention
TIsistemo checks stored goods, clears affected areas and sets up monitoring to protect storage.
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Inspection Checking batches, silos and containers to locate hotspots.
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Clearance Removing infested products and thorough cleaning.
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Targeted treatment Specific treatments in storage areas where necessary.
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Monitoring Regular checks to protect stock.
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