Greater Wax Moth
Common NameGreater Wax Moth
Scientific NameGalleria mellonella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyGalleriinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatApiaries, areas with beehives, human dwellings where honey/wax is stored
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide)
Host Plantsbeeswax, honey, pollen, bee larvae
Flight PeriodYear-round in warm climates; multiple generations from spring to autumn in temperate regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are destructive pests of beehives, tunneling through wax combs, consuming wax, pollen, and honey, and sometimes bee brood. Pupation occurs in silken cocoons.
Identification TipsLook for the cryptic, mottled brown and grey forewings, often with a darker streak along the costa. Males have a distinct indentation on the forewing margin, and the moth's association with beehives is a strong indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, often appearing streaked, and paler hindwings. It has a somewhat flattened appearance when at rest.
