Almond Moth (Cadra cautella)
The almond moth is a member of the family of snout moths found worldwide. They are commonly confused with Indian meal moths, Mediterranean flour moths, raisin moths, and dried food moths that also infest pantries.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Cadra
- Scientific Name: Cadra cautella
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae are a creamy white, with a brown head capsule and rows of spots along the back.
Larvae feed on various wheat products, preferring cracked or ground seeds. Older caterpillars will sometimes eat their younger siblings or eggs.
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Pupa
Pupae are brown to yellow, pupating inside a whitish cocoon. The pupal phase spans for about 10 days on an average.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
When the wings are opened, they are light-gray to tan. When the wings are closed, light wavy markings are observed across the wings.
Average wingspan: 1.4-2.3 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: Warmer months
Egg
They are oval, ivory, and 2 cm long, laid on foodstuffs or cracks and crevices.
Quick Facts
| Other Names | Tropical warehouse moth |
| Distribution | Cosmopolitan |
| Habitat | Warehouses or similar industrial environments |
| Lifespan of Adults | Males: 6-7 days Females: About 10 days |
| Host Plants | Bran, flour, oats, other grains, and dried fruits. |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed; but might drink water upon availability |
Did You Know
- English entomologist Francis Walker first described this species in 1863.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Cadra
- Scientific Name: Cadra cautella
