Secondary insect pests

There are approximately 35 species of insects and grain mites recognized by the Canadian Grain Commission as being secondary pests. This includes over 22 species of beetles, 11 species of moths, 2 species of booklice and grain mites.

Secondary pests generally feed on grain that is damaged, or is going out of condition. Damaged grain kernels have exposed endosperm that is accessible food for insects and fungi. The presence of secondary insect pests often indicates that the grain is not at optimal condition and that measures should be implemented to protect the grain from a further decline in quality.

List of secondary insect pests

The secondary pests listed below are arranged alphabetically by order, family and scientific name. The grain mites are listed at the end of the insects because they are not insects but are considered secondary pests of grain.

*One of the eight common insect pests.

References

1. Bousquet, Y. 1990. Beetles associated with stored products in Canada: An identification guide. Ottawa, ON: Agriculture Canada.
2. Campbell, J.M, M.J. Sarazin and D.B. Lyons. 1989. Canadian beetles (Coleoptera) injurious to crops, ornamentals, stored products, and buildings. Ottawa, ON: Agriculture Canada.
3. Gorham, J.R. ed. 1987. Insect and mite pests in food: An illustrated key. Vol 1. Washington DC: United States Department of Agriculture.
4. Gorham, J.R. ed. 1987. Insect and mite pests in food: An illustrated key. Vol 2. Washington DC: United States Department of Agriculture.
5. Rees, D. 2004. Insects of stored products. CSIRO publishing. Collingwood, VIC: Australia.
6. Sinha, R.N and F.L. Watters. 1985. Insect pests of flour mills, grain elevators, and feed mills and their control. Ottawa, ON: Agriculture Canada.