Indian Meal Moths
The Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella) is a small moth, approximately 1/8” long, and the wings have a distinctive bronze color on the lower half of the rear wing. They will often sit on surfaces with their abdomen elevated. These are the most common stored product moths found in structures. Empty pupa cases may be found.
Indian Meal Moth Habits
Larvae are small, cream-colored caterpillars, known as “wax worms”. They infest a variety for stored food products, including nuts and chocolate, as well as dried flowers and seed arrangements. They can infest pet food and bird seed as well. The larvae will move away from the food source, if possible, and pupate along ceiling and cabinetry edges in small cocoons. Webbing from larvae can be seen in stored food products.
Questions To Ask About Indian Meal Moths
- Do you keep your open food packages in sealed containers?
- Where have you seen them?
- Have you seen larvae (worms)?
- Do you store pet food or bird seed?
Indian Meal Moth Inspection Tips
- Look for cocoons and larvae.
- Look for adult moths on ceiling, or surfaces in pantries.
- Check pantries and where food is stored.
- Look for dried flower arrangements
