Tamarind Seed Beetle (Caryedon serratus)

A Silent Pest Threat to Tamarind and Dry Legume Seeds

The Tamarind Seed Beetle (Caryedon serratus) is a small but destructive beetle in the family Bruchidae, known for causing direct damage to tamarind seeds and dry legumes, such as peanuts, both pre- and post-harvest. The larvae bore into seeds and feed from within, significantly reducing the quality and commercial value of agricultural products.

Basic Identification

• Forewings (elytra): Hardened with fine hairs
• Hindwings: Transparent membrane

Legs:

• Third pair (hind legs) is enlarged with serrated femur and curved tibia—key features for species identification

Life Cycle (Complete Metamorphosis)

• Laid singly on seed surface
• Hatch in 5–6 days

• Duration: ~21 days
• Larvae burrow into seeds and feed internally

• Duration: 20–25 days
• Larvae exit seeds to pupate externally inside a cocoon

• Lifespan: ~6 months
• Total life cycle: 47–68 days

Host Plants & Damage

Target Crops:

• Sweet tamarind
• Sour tamarind
• Indian laburnum (Cassia fistula)
• Pongamia seeds
• Peanuts

Damage Symptoms:

• Larvae feed inside seeds, leaving holes, frass, and cocoons
• Infested seeds are unsuitable for sale or consumption
• Most damage occurs in under-dried pods or during storage

Distribution

• Found in tropical and subtropical regions
• Reported across Asia, Africa, and South America

Control and Management

✅ Physical & Cultural Controls

• Use before storing or processing raw materials
• Recommended for batches marked for rejection

✅ Biological & Monitoring Methods

• Attract and trap adult males
• Monitor infestation levels in storage areas

✅ Conclusion

While Caryedon serratus may not cause immediate devastation, the quality degradation from internal larval feeding, frass, and cocoons has a serious impact on consumer trust and product marketability—especially for high-value crops like tamarind and peanuts.

Effective management relies on Integrated Pest Management (IPM)—a combination of good pre-harvest practices, proper drying and storage, and regular monitoring with pheromone traps. By adopting a proactive approach, farmers and producers can protect both product integrity and consumer confidence.