Bug Identifier
Indian meal moth larva
Community identification

Indian meal moth larva

Plodia interpunctella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Size
12 to 13 mm long (mature larvae)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.