Indianmeal Moth (Larval Silk/Casing)

Scientific Name: Plodia interpunctella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae

Size: Larvae grow to about 12 mm; adults have a wingspan of 16-20 mm.

Indianmeal Moth (Larval Silk/Casing)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in pantries, kitchens, and food processing facilities where dried goods are stored.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on dried grain products, seeds, nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae spin characteristic silken webbing as they feed, often matting food particles together. They may crawl away from the food source to pupate in cracks or crevices.

Risks & Benefits

Major household pest that causes significant food spoilage and economic loss. They do not bite or sting and are not known to transmit diseases, but infested food must be discarded.

Identified on: 12/30/2025