Foreign grain beetles feed on what primary substance?

• A. Fungal growth
• B. Pollen
• C. Stored grain
• D. Wood fibers

Answer: (A)

Foreign grain beetles are fungus-feeders in stored products. Their main food source is the fungal growth, the mold that develops on damp grain and other dried stored foods. The beetles and their larvae feed on that mold rather than on the grain kernels themselves, so their presence signals moisture and mold issues in storage. Pollen and wood fibers aren’t typical foods for these beetles, and while they may be found in stored grain, the grain itself isn’t what sustains them—the mold is. Controlling moisture and mold reduces their food source and helps manage infestations.