Larger grain borer

Abstract

The larger grain borer, Prostephanus truncatus is a species originating in Meso-America which was accidentally introduced to Tanzania and Togo. It has since spread widely, becoming the most destructive pest of stored maize in both East and West Africa.
Adult P. truncatus tunnel extensively in the grain, feeding directly on it and excavating side chambers, off the main tunnel, where the females lay a batch of 4 to 8 eggs. On hatching, the larvae tunnel into the grain within which the eggs are laid.