Tropical Meal Moth
Common NameTropical Meal Moth
Scientific NamePyralis manihotalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, dark brown
HabitatStored food facilities, warehouses, homes; naturally in tropical and subtropical environments
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide), especially in tropical and subtropical regions
Host Plantsgrains, flour, dried fruits, nuts, cocoa, spices, animal feed
Flight PeriodYear-round (indoors); warmer months (outdoors in natural range)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous pests of stored food products, spinning silken tunnels as they feed. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often in crevices or on the food source. Multiple generations can occur annually, especially in warm conditions.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, mottled brown and cream wing pattern, and its presence in areas with stored food products. It can be distinguished from similar meal moths by specific wing markings, though these can be subtle.
Description
A small moth with mottled wings displaying shades of brown, cream, and dark brown, providing excellent camouflage. The body is slender and similarly colored.
