Stored Product Insects
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Warehouse Moth – Ephestia elutella

General
A greyish moth with a pattern of two obscure bands across the forewings and a wing span of 12mm-18mm. Typical characteristics can be unreliable. Positive identification may require skilled help. The mature larvae is 10mm-15mm long, creamy white with a brown head capsule and brown body markings. There are three pairs of jointed thoracic legs and five pairs of abdominal prolegs.

Significance
This moth is one of the most important warehouse pests in the UK. Whole grains, cereal products, oil seeds, pulses, cocoa beans, dried fruit and vegetable, nuts, tobacco and chocolate may be attacked. Tends to fly at dawn and dusk.

Control    
Find the sources of infestation. Destroy or fumigate. Thoroughly clean the area and apply a residual insecticide. A ULV may also be appropriate and professional advice is recommended.

Number of days spent as:

Egg 10-14
Larva 20-200
Pupa 10-28
Adult 9-21
 

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