Trogoderma granarium

Definition

A small dermestid beetle species, commonly called the khapra beetle or cabinet beetle, native to South Asia and now established as a cosmopolitan pest of stored grain, seeds, and dried food products. Adults are oval, dark brown, and 1.6–3.0 mm long; larvae are covered in dense, banded setae and can enter extended diapause, surviving months without food in dry conditions. The species is notoriously difficult to eradicate due to its cryptic habits, tolerance of low-moisture environments, and resistance to many fumigants and insecticides. It is listed among the 100 worst invasive species globally and is subject to strict international quarantine regulations, including U.S. federal restrictions on rice imports from infested countries.

Etymology

From Greek 'trogo' (gnawing) + 'derma' (skin), referring to larval feeding habits; 'granarium' Latin for granary, denoting its association with stored grain.

Example

A shipment of rice intercepted at a U.S. port was rejected after inspection revealed live Trogoderma granarium larvae in the cargo, triggering mandatory fumigation or destruction under federal quarantine protocols.

Synonyms

• Khapra beetle
• cabinet beetle

Related Terms

• Dermestidae
• stored-product entomology
• quarantine pest
• Diapause
• Integrated Pest Management
• Trogoderma

Usage Notes

The common name 'khapra beetle' (from Hindi 'khapra,' meaning dust or bran) is widely used in regulatory and agricultural contexts; 'cabinet beetle' is more common in museum and domestic settings where the species damages dried specimens and woolens. Not to be confused with Trogoderma variabile or other congeneric pests. Taxonomic authority: Everts, 1898.