Question

The scientific name of Angoumois grain moth is

• A. Corcyra cephalonica
• B. Sitotroga cerealella
• C. Tribolium castaneum
• D. Rhyzopertha dominica

Hint:

The Angoumois grain moth is Sitotroga cerealella. Its larvae feed entirely inside the grain, leaving a characteristic circular "window" on the seed coat before emerging.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Post-harvest losses are often caused by stored grain pests, which are classified as primary or secondary pests.
Primary pests can attack whole, undamaged grains, while secondary pests feed on damaged grains or flour.
Identifying stored product insects by their scientific names is essential for designing effective storage sanitation and fumigation protocols.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Angoumois grain moth is a primary stored grain pest of global importance.
Its scientific name is Sitotroga cerealella (family Gelechiidae).
The female moth lays eggs on the surface of grains (such as paddy, maize, wheat, and sorghum).
The young larva bores into the grain and feeds on the endosperm from inside, leaving the seed coat intact.
Before pupation, the larva cuts a small circular exit hole on the grain surface, leaving a thin, translucent "window" of seed coat.
Upon emerging, the adult moth pushes open this window, leaving an empty shell behind.
For comparison:
- Corcyra cephalonica is the rice moth, which produces heavy webbing.
- Tribolium castaneum is the red flour beetle, a secondary pest.
- Rhyzopertha dominica is the lesser grain borer, a beetle belonging to Bostrychidae.
Therefore, the scientific name of the Angoumois grain moth is Sitotroga cerealella.

Step 3: Final Answer
The scientific name of the Angoumois grain moth is Sitotroga cerealella.