Schedophilus

Schedophilus is a genus of beetles in the family Ptinidae. These beetles are small, typically measuring only a few millimeters in length. They are often found in stored products, particularly grains, seeds, and dried fruits. The larvae of Schedophilus species are vermiform and live within the food source, feeding on it and causing damage. Adult Schedophilus beetles are generally less damaging but may also consume stored food.

The genus Schedophilus was described by Wollaston in 1854. The exact number of species within the genus can vary depending on taxonomic revisions, but it includes several species of economic importance as pests of stored commodities. Some species are cosmopolitan, found in various regions of the world due to human trade and transport of infested goods.

Identification of Schedophilus species often relies on morphological characteristics, including the shape of the antennae, pronotum, and elytra. Their life cycle typically involves egg laying on or near the food source, followed by larval development, pupation, and emergence of the adult beetle. Control measures for Schedophilus infestations in stored products often involve good hygiene practices, proper storage conditions, and sometimes the use of insecticides.