About Maize Weevil
A small dark brown weevil with four reddish spots on its elytra. It is one of the most destructive stored grain pests worldwide.
Did You Know?
A single female can lay over 400 eggs in grain kernels and infestations can destroy entire harvests in storage.
How to Identify Maize Weevil
Maize Weevil (Sitophilus zeamais) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Curculionidae. Adults typically measure 2-4mm.
Maize Weevil Habitat
Maize Weevil is found in indoors habitats, particularly across Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, Oceania. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Maize Weevil Diet and Feeding
Maize Weevil feeds on seeds and grains. Seed-feeding insects can influence plant populations by consuming seeds, and some play a role in seed dispersal.
Where Is Maize Weevil Found?
Maize Weevil can be found in Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, Oceania, where it inhabits indoors environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Maize Weevil can be found
Is Maize Weevil Dangerous?
Maize Weevil is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Maize Weevil Role in Nature
Maize Weevil is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Maize Weevil
What does Maize Weevil look like?
The Maize Weevil typically measures 2-4mm.
Where is Maize Weevil found?
The Maize Weevil is found in Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, Oceania and typically inhabits indoors environments.
What does Maize Weevil eat?
The Maize Weevil feeds on seeds and grains.
Is Maize Weevil dangerous to humans?
The Maize Weevil is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Maize Weevil?
A single female can lay over 400 eggs in grain kernels and infestations can destroy entire harvests in storage.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Maize Weevil (Sitophilus zeamais). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/maize-weevil
MLA:
"Maize Weevil." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/maize-weevil.