
Community identification
Pantry Moth Larva (Waxworm/Indianmeal Moth Larva)
Plodia interpunctella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
- Size
- Approximately 12-13 mm in length when mature.
Natural Habitat
Pantries, kitchens, and food storage facilities containing dry goods.
Diet & Feeding
Grains, cereal, flour, nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, candies, and pet foods.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae spin silk webs as they feed across food surfaces; they often crawl away from their food source to find a crevice in which to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
A major domestic and commercial pest that causes food spoilage; while not toxic or pathogenic to humans, they cause significant economic loss and waste.