Tiny Beetle, Big Threat: A Review of Cigarette Beetle Infestation in Grains and Stored Commodities
UR Karnavat *
Department of Entomology, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, India.
RD Dodiya
Department of Entomology, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, India.
NP Pathan
Department of Plant Protection, College of Horticulture, S. D. Agricultural University, Jagudan, India.
ZN Patel
Department of Entomology, C. P. College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The modernization of agricultural production has significantly boosted food production but also increased vulnerability to stored grain pests, including the cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne). This coleopteran pest infests a wide range of stored products, causing substantial economic and qualitative losses globally. With a lifecycle adapted to diverse environments and a preference for dried products, it poses challenges to food safety and security. Effective management strategies include sanitation, physical methods (temperature and controlled atmosphere treatments), biological controls and botanical repellents. Advances in nanotechnology and pheromone traps show promise in mitigating its impact.
Keywords: Cigarette beetle, stored grains, post-harvest losses, pest management, Lasioderma serricorne