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Lesser wax moth

Lesser wax moth

Achroia grisella

A species of Lesser wax moth

Adults are about 1.3 cm in length and have a distinct yellow head with a silver-grey or beige body.

General Info About Lesser wax moth
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Attributes of Lesser wax moth
Colors
Brown
Gray
Habitat
hive
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, plant sap, honey, honeydew
Larva Food Source
Dried animal products, dried plant material, beehive products like honeycomb, dead insects, frass (insect larvae droppings)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Lesser wax moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The Lesser wax moth can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Lesser wax moth
They are known or suspected to inhabit most of Africa, Australia, Europe and North America, as well as parts of the Neotropics, the Bengal region, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the Marquesas Islands and Tahiti in French Polynesia.
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Adult Size of Lesser wax moth
1.6 - 2.5 cm
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Predators of Lesser wax moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, ants, wasps, spiders
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Predators of Adult Lesser wax moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Lesser wax moth
Lesser wax moth larvae have the unusual ability to digest wax, a trait exploited in the production of honey.
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Scientific Classification of Lesser wax moth
Tips for Finding Lesser wax moth
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Youth Habitat of Lesser wax moth
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Lesser wax moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of lesser wax moth are typically found in beehives, where they feed on wax, honey, and pollen. During the pupal stage, they remain in cocoon-like structures within the hive debris. To find these larvae, search inside active or abandoned hives, especially in the debris where they might create their cocoons. Adults are nocturnal and often located near beehives or areas with flowering plants, as they're attracted to lights at night. When searching for the adult lesser wax moth, look around light sources after dusk or near beehives during the night.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Lesser wax moth
For adult lesser wax moth, the suitable time to find them is during the night when they are most active. The larval stage may be found anytime in the infested material.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Lesser wax moth
Calm, warm and humid evenings are optimal conditions for adult lesser wax moth to be active. However, their larvae are less affected by weather conditions and can be found inside infested foodstuffs regardless of the weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Lesser wax moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of lesser wax moth are tiny and often laid within foodstuffs like grains or flour. To find them, inspect pantry items or storage containers for small clusters of white or cream-colored eggs.
Larva Larvae of lesser wax moth are commonly found inside dried food products. Look for them by examining foodstuff like dried fruits, nuts, and grains for webbing or feeding damage.
Pupal Pupae of lesser wax moth may be located in the same areas as the larvae. Search for webbed cocoons in cracks or crevices of food storage areas or containers.
Adult Adult lesser wax moth can be lured with light or pheromone traps placed near potential infestation areas, particularly during nighttime. They may also be observed around sources of light such as windows or lamps.
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