Bug Identifier
Indian Meal Moth (Adult)
Community identification

Indian Meal Moth (Adult)

Plodia interpunctella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Size
8-10 mm in length with a 16-20 mm wingspan
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Pantries, food storage areas, and warehouses where dry goods are stored

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on dry foods like cereal, flour, nuts, pet food, and dried fruit; adults do not eat

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal pollinators in the wild; in homes, they fly in zigzag patterns and lay eggs near food sources

Risks & Benefits

A major household pest that spoils food with webbing and frass; poses no direct health risk to humans