Indian meal moth larva
Scientific Name: Plodia interpunctella
Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Size: 12 to 13 mm long (mature larvae)
Natural Habitat
Stored food products, warehouses, and pantries
Diet & Feeding
Grains, cereals, dried fruits, nuts, and other dry pantry items
Behavior Patterns
Larvae spin silk webbing over food as they feed; they often leave the food source to pupate on walls or ceilings.
Risks & Benefits
Significant pantry pest causing food contamination; no direct health risk to humans but can cause substantial economic loss.
Identified on: 6/5/2026