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Tropical meal moth

Tropical meal moth

Pyralis manihotalis

A species of Pyralis, Also known as Moth

The wingspan is about 12–20 mm (Robinson et al., 1994; Weinstein & Edwards, 1994; Wang, 2000), although given as a rather generous 24–37 mm in Goater (1986).

General Info About Tropical meal moth
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Attributes of Tropical meal moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Gray
Habitat
Tropical area
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from various plant species, honeydew secreted by aphids and other insects, plant sap on damaged or open plant tissues, overripe or decaying fruits, water with dissolved minerals
Larva Food Source
Manihot esculenta (cassava) leaves, other host plants within the euphorbiaceae family
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Tropical meal moth
It is a widespread, pan-tropical species (Robinson et al., 1994), known from Africa, India, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Australia, Samoa, Hawaii, South America and the West Indies. It is occasionally recorded from Europe through accidental importation in bones and animal hides.
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Life Cycle of Tropical meal moth
Egg The embryonic stage begins as the egg of tropical meal moth is laid, often on a food source. The egg is small, with a protective outer layer. The shape, color, and size vary but generally blend with the environment to avoid predation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of tropical meal moth is worm-like, with a focus on consuming nutrients for growth. It's legged, typically with a soft body, and molting occurs multiple times, leading to increased size and sometimes color changes.
Pupal During the pupal stage, tropical meal moth undergoes transformation within a cocoon. The inactive pupa forms inside, with major reorganization of tissues. The exterior may blend with surroundings, and the size and shape are distinctly different from earlier stages.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult tropical meal moth’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Tropical meal moth Larvae
Araneae (spiders), formicidae (ants), ichneumonidae (parasitic wasps), mantodea (praying mantises), aves (birds)
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Scientific Classification of Tropical meal moth
Tips for Finding Tropical meal moth
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Youth Habitat of Tropical meal moth
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Tropical meal moth
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Tropical meal moth
The adult tropical meal moth may be attracted using light traps at night, as adults are typically nocturnal and drawn to light sources.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Tropical meal moth
Warm and humid conditions are favorable for tropical meal moth activity, especially for adult emergence and mating.
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How and Where Can You Find Tropical meal moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Tropical meal moth eggs are often laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. Search for small, whitish or pale-colored eggs in these areas.
Larva Tropical meal moth larvae can be found on or near their food source, typically in the case of tropical meal moth, within fabrics or stored goods like grains or cereals due to the family's preference.
Pupal Tropical meal moth pupae may be located within silken cocoons in sheltered areas close to the larval food source. They can often be found in crevices or protected spots where larvae finished feeding.
Adult Adult tropical meal moth are attracted to light, so using light traps in suitable conditions can be effective. They may also be found resting on surfaces near light sources during the day.
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Harmful Effects of Tropical meal moth
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Agricultural Pests

Larvae of tropical meal moth feed on cassava leaves, causing defoliation which can lead to reduced tuber size and yield. In high numbers, severe defoliation can occur, potentially decimating crops and impacting food security in affected regions.

More Effects of Tropical meal moth

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