Stored Product Insects
Untitled Document
Indian Meal Moth - Plodia interpunctella

General
The adult moth has an open wingspan of approximately 16mm. The fore wing has a broad grey band across the bronze brown wings. Because it loses its wings positive identification can be challenging. Consult a specialist.

Significance
It is established in the UK and is a frequent import on commodities. These moths are a common stored product insect attacking cereal products, oil seeds, cocoa beans, dried fruit and nuts. They may also be found on dried vegetables, confectionery and rice. It is considered to be the most important moth pest of dried fruit.

Control
Find the source of the infestation. Infested commodities should be destroyed, or failing this, fumigated. The area must be thoroughly cleaned and residual insecticide applied. The use of an ultra low volume applicator may also be indicated. Specialist help may be required to establish extent of infestation and efficiency of any control measures.

Number of days spent as:

Egg 2-8
Larva 13-288
Pupa 7-43
 

Copyright © Healthguard Ltd. All rights reserved.
Designed By Inter-Arc