What is the most common pest of coarsely ground flours and cornmeal?

The Indianmeal moth is recognized as the most common pest affecting coarsely ground flours and cornmeal due to its suitability for infesting stored products. The larvae of the Indianmeal moth typically feed on grains and processed food products, making it particularly adept at thriving in environments where these materials are stored. The adult moths are often a noticeable presence in food storage areas, and they lay their eggs in or near the food source, leading to significant infestations if left unchecked.

In contrast, other pests may have different preferences or feeding habits that make them less common in coarsely ground flours and cornmeal. For example, the rice weevil and the granary weevil primarily target whole grains and seeds rather than processed foods, and the mealworm beetle is more associated with cereals but is less specific to flour and cornmeal than the Indianmeal moth. Understanding the specific characteristics of these pests and their feeding behaviors elucidates why the Indianmeal moth stands out as the prevalent pest in this category.