Rice Moth (Corcyra cephalonica)
The rice moth is a member of the snout moth family considered an annoying pest. In fact, in its caterpillar form, it mainly infests rice, as evident from its name, alongside other food items like flour, cocoa beans, dried fruits, and spices. English entomologist Henry Tibbats Stainton first described it in 1866.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Corcyra
- Scientific Name: Corcyra cephalonica
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae have a creamy white body and a dark brown head. They form dense webbing by spinning threads, through which they mainly contaminate food. After remaining in the larval stage for 15 – 20 days, they proceed to pupate.
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Pupa
The strong webbing formed by the larva helps them make a tough and dense cocoon, white in color. The entire pupal phase spans between 7 and 10 days.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
Forewing: When opened, the wings are pale yellow or green. When closed, the color remains the same.
Hindwing: It appears grayish-white, both when opened and closed.
Average wingspan: 15-25 mm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: March to November
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Egg
The eggs are small, elliptical, and oval laid near the food source, 100 – 200 eggs at a time.
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Quick Facts
| Distribution | North America, Asia, Africa, and Europe |
| Habitat | Warm climates |
| Lifespan of Adults | 1 week |
| Host Plants | Seeds, cereals, flour, and dry fruits |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- This moth had many other scientific names in the past like Corcyra translineella, Anerastia lineata, and Melissoblaptes oeconomellus, invalid at present.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Corcyra
- Scientific Name: Corcyra cephalonica
