Indianmeal Moth
Scientific Name: Plodia interpunctella
Order & Family: Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), Pyralidae (snout moths/pyralid moths)
Size: Adults have a wingspan of approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch (12-20 mm). Larvae can grow up to 1/2 inch (12 mm) long.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in pantries, kitchens, food processing plants, and retail stores where stored food products are present. They can infest homes as well as commercial establishments.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on a wide range of dried stored food products, including grains, cereals, dried fruits, nuts, seeds, pet food, birdseed, spices, and chocolate. Adult moths do not feed.
Behavior Patterns
Adult moths are nocturnal and are attracted to lights. Females lay eggs on or near food sources. Larvae (caterpillars) are the damaging stage, as they feed on and can contaminate stored products. They spin silken webs as they feed, which can mat food particles together.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks: A major pest of stored food products, causing significant economic damage by contaminating food with silken webs, frass (excrement), and shed skins. Consumption of contaminated food is generally not harmful but is unappetizing. Potential benefits: None significant in a human-centric context; in natural ecosystems, they might serve as a food source for other organisms.
Identified on: 7/2/2025