Spatial Distribution and Flight Patterns of Two Grain Storage Insect Pests, (Bostrichidae) and (Tenebrionidae): Implications for Pest Management.

The lesser grain borer, , and the rust red flour beetle, , are two major beetle pests commonly found infesting stored products worldwide. Both species can cause severe economic damage and their management is complicated by their potential to develop resistance to several of the limited chemical options available. However, pest management strategies can be improved by understanding the ecology of the pest insect. To determine the spatiotemporal activity of and we conducted a trapping study over two years in a temperate region of south-eastern Australia, with traps located near grain storages and fields. We captured higher numbers of than , and both species were more prevalent in traps located close to grain storages. Similar and consistent seasonal patterns were displayed by both species with activity ceasing during the winter (June-August) months. We found linear correlations between maximum daily temperatures and trap catches, and minimum threshold temperatures for flight activity were 14.5 °C and 15.6 °C for and , respectively. The results are discussed in relation to the ecology of these pests along with their implications for pest management.