A to Z of Pests

Warehouse Moth

Ephestia elutella

Appearance

• Adult — 7—9mm in length with a wingspan of 10—16mm. Very similar to the Tropical warehouse moth.
• Larva — very similar to the Tropical warehouse moth.

Lifecycle

• Eggs hatch out from 3 to 6 days over a temperature range of 20°C to 28.5°C. Pupa matures from 10 to 20 days over a temperature range of 18°C to 26°C. Entire development is 82 to 206 days at 26°C (on tobacco).

Habits

• A serious pest of cocoa beans, chocolate confectionery, dried fruit and nuts.