(Rhizopertha dominica)
Biology:
The neck shield of the approx. 3 mm long dark brown to black beetle is hooded over the head, which contributed to its name. The head is therefore hidden under the round neck shield, only the antennae, which end in a tripartite club, are visible. The females lay their eggs loosely on cereal grains. Larvae and beetles feed on the grain and leave behind irregularly shaped feeding holes of varying sizes. Older larvae bore into the grains and also pupate there. The beetle species is primarily adapted to higher temperatures and was introduced to us from its native habitat in the tropics and subtropics.
Overwintering outside of stored grain is not possible; development stops even below 18 °C.
Damage:
Damage caused by the cereal capuchin is caused by feeding on cereals, but also on cereal products, baked goods, pulses, drugs, etc. The food substrate takes on a honey-like odor when infested. In addition, the beetle can cause damage with its drilling activity on packaging materials (pitting).
