Bug Identifier
Indianmeal Moth
Community identification

Indianmeal Moth

Plodia interpunctella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Size
Wingspan of 16-20 mm; length of 8-10 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Stored food products in kitchens, pantries, and food processing facilities worldwide.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on grains, flours, dried fruits, nuts, cereals, spices, and pet foods.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal adults fly in a zigzag pattern and lay eggs near food sources; larvae spin silken webs as they feed.

Risks & Benefits

Pantry pest that causes food contamination and spoilage via webbing and frass; no direct health risk to humans but causes significant economic loss.