Indian meal moth
Scientific name: Plodia interpunctella
Distribution
Widely distributed in tropical and warm temperate regions.
Pest Type
Secondary pest
Identification
The labial palp of adults points forward. They have a wingspan of 10–15 mm. The upper part of their forewings is cream-coloured while the lower half is reddish brown with a copper sheen; the distinction between the colours is divided by a dark brown band. The hindwings are cream-coloured without any markings.
Life Cycle
Life cycle can be completed in 30 days at 30℃ and 75% or higher relative humidity. The females lay eggs on commodities, and upon hatching, the larvae feed externally and produce silk webbing.
Adults only live to reproduce, and they do not eat.
Commodities attacked
The larvae attack broken kernels and grains, and grain dust, buts, cereals, and other processed foods.
Economic Importance
High, especially in mills, food factories, and storage facilities of processed goods.
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