Which of the following best describes scavengers in the context of stored product pests?

The best description of scavengers among stored product pests is indeed that they feed on spoiled or decayed products. Scavengers play a specific ecological role by consuming organic matter that is no longer in optimal condition for human consumption. This behavior often leads them to infested or improperly stored food products where they can find decaying organic materials to thrive on.

By focusing on damaged, spoiled, or decaying supplies, scavengers not only contribute to the recycling of nutrients back into the environment but also serve as indicators of food spoilage and poor storage practices. In the realm of pest management, understanding which pests are scavengers helps in implementing effective control strategies, especially since these pests can proliferate rapidly in contaminated environments, reducing the quality of stored products.

The other options mischaracterize scavengers—some suggest behaviors or habitats that do not apply; for instance, some pests do not solely seek food outside, do not specifically target live plants, or require damp environments for survival. These distinctions are critical when identifying and managing pest populations within food storage facilities.