Mediterranean Flour Moth
Common NameMediterranean Flour Moth
Scientific NameEphestia kuehniella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatHuman-associated environments, such as flour mills, bakeries, food storage facilities, and pantries.
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide distribution due to human activity)
Host Plantsflour, grains, cereals, pasta, nuts, dried fruits, chocolate
Flight PeriodYear-round indoors, multiple generations per year
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on food sources. Larvae are whitish caterpillars that feed on stored dry food products, spinning silken tubes as they consume food. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often away from the main food source. Multiple generations can occur annually, especially in warm conditions.
Identification TipsLook for its characteristic grey, mottled forewings with wavy dark lines and a slightly 'hunched' resting posture. Often found in areas with stored dry food products. The hindwings are noticeably paler than the forewings.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled grey forewings featuring darker, wavy transverse lines and spots, and paler whitish-grey hindwings. It typically rests with its wings folded tightly over its body, giving it a somewhat elongated appearance.
