Mediterranean Meal Moth
What do Mediterranean meal moths Look Like?
Mediterranean meal moths are pale gray with black wavy lines on their wings, about 3/4” long and have a wingspan of about 1”. A distinct characteristic of these moths is a certain pose that they take when an adult is at rest. An adult Mediterranean meal moth will extend its forelegs and raise its head, which gives it a sloped appearance. This pose is actually quite helpful in identifying these moths from other meal moths. Their larvae are off-white or pink with a dark head and are about 1/2” at full growth.
When are Mediterranean meal moths Most Active?
The adult Mediterranean meal moth is most active at night.
What Attracts Mediterranean meal moths?
The Mediterranean meal moths are attracted to lights.
Where are you likely to find Mediterranean meal moths?
In a residential setting, Mediterranean meal moths are most likely to be in or around pantry areas. They can be discovered in stored dried foods such as:
In a commercial or farming setting, they are most likely to be around the dried food storage area or near the processing equipment.
Are Mediterranean meal moths Dangerous or Destructive?
Mediterranean meal moths are both dangerous and destructive in the sense that they damage and infest dry storage food, contaminating it and making it unsanitary for consumption and sale.
