ID Stored Wheat Insects

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    Grain Mites

    Description:
    The adults are very difficult to see, 1/50 inch long, pale, wingless, soft bodied arthropods. In severely damaged grain, a light fluffy material composed of cast skins may float in the air.

    Damage:
    Mites attack microscopic cracks in the seed coat, which most kernels have. They feed on the seed embryo and hence can inhibit germination. Large numbers can cause grain heating. Mites are more often a nuisance than a direct pest.
    Grain Mites

    Psocids

    Description:
    The adults are very small 1/25 inch long. They are pale grey to yellow, wingless and soft-bodied. They have relatively large heads and look similar to lice. They have poorly developed eyes and long slender antennae.

    Damage:
    These insects are often found in high moisture grain. These insects do not cause any direct damage to grain and are more of a nuisance. They feed primarly on molds and favor dark, warm and moist environments.
    Psocids