Bug Identifier
Pantry Moth Larva (Waxworm/Indianmeal Moth Larva)
Community identification

Pantry Moth Larva (Waxworm/Indianmeal Moth Larva)

Plodia interpunctella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Size
Approximately 12-13 mm in length when mature.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.