The widely accepted common name cadelle comes from the French vernacular,[3] and in its modern meaning refers to both adults and larvae.

The specific epithet mauritanicus means Mauritanian, in reference to the species’ supposed African origin.

[6] Having probably originated in North Africa,[4][5] the cadelle has now spread through human agency to most other parts of the world in exported grain products and dunnage.

[5] Although primarily synanthropic, it is less commonly found in wild habitats[7] Resembling a carabid, the cadelle is a rather large beetle with a slightly flattened, elongated body, measuring 6 – 12 mm in length.

Adults, with their sharp claws, can gnaw holes in packaging, exposing foods to attack by other pest species.