Which stored product pest is specifically characterized by its inability to fly?

The granary weevil is identified by its lack of wings, which means it is unable to fly. This characteristic sets it apart from other stored product pests, many of which have the ability to fly as adults. The granary weevil’s inability to fly may contribute to its behavior and life cycle, as it typically infests grains in storage facilities and does not spread via flight. Instead, it relies on the movement of infested grains or other means to establish new infestations.

In contrast, the rice weevil and the peanut weevil both possess the capability to fly, which allows them to disperse more widely and invade new food sources more easily. The merchant grain beetle also has wings and can fly, making it a more mobile pest. The distinction of being flightless is significant in understanding the behavior of the granary weevil and how it interacts with its environment, especially in infestations of stored grains.