Scientific classification | |
---|---|
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Insecta |
Order: | Lepidoptera |
Family: | Pyralidae |
Tribe: | Phycitini |
Genus: | Plodia Guenée, 1845 |
Species: | P. interpunctella |
Scientific Name: Plodia interpunctella
The Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella, is said to be the most common, and most destructive stored product insect. It is found in both commercial food handling and storage as well as residential. They feed on food such as grain, cereal and flour. They do not live very long and are most active at night when their main purpose is to mate. This huge desire to mate makes pheromone traps extremely effective.