Cigarette Beetle Identification
Lasioderma serricorne
The Cigarette Beetle is a major stored product pest in food processing, spice manufacturing, and dry ingredient facilities. It is one of the most common beetles found in commercial environments.
Quick Identification
- Oval reddish-brown beetle
- 2.5–3.5 mm long
- Strong flier
- Larvae white with long hairs
Where We See It
- Spice rooms
- Dry ingredient storage
- Bakeries
- Warehouses
Life Cycle
- 30–42 eggs per female
- Develops as low as 63°F
- Optimal: ~90°F at 70% RH
- Short development cycle in warm environments
Why It Matters
- Feeds on spices, flour, grain, dried meat, and pharmaceuticals
- Larval feeding contaminates product
- Adults disperse infestations quickly
Monitoring & Control
Pheromone traps are effective for monitoring. Source removal is essential. Structural fumigation may be required if populations are widespread.
Need Help Identifying This Pest?
FSS stored product entomologists can confirm identification through photo review or laboratory analysis, then recommend a facility-specific plan.