(Sitotroga cerealella)

The Angoumois Grain Moth is a small moth that belongs to the family Gelechiidae. It is a significant pest of stored grains, especially corn (maize), and can cause damage to stored products in agricultural and food storage facilities.

Larval Feeding: The larvae of Angoumois Grain Moths are internal feeders, causing damage by tunneling into the inner portions of stored grains.
Flight Capability: Adult moths are capable of flight, allowing them to disperse and infest new grain stores.
Control:
Control measures for Angoumois Grain Moths involve maintaining proper storage conditions, including temperature and humidity control. Regular inspection and monitoring of stored grains are crucial for early detection. Integrated pest management strategies may include the use of insect-proof storage containers, sanitation practices, and, if necessary, the application of insecticides or fumigation.

Given their ability to infest stored grains and cause economic losses, effective management of Angoumois Grain Moth infestations requires a proactive approach to storage hygiene and pest control.

Overview

Biology

Appearance: Adult Angoumois Grain Moths are small, with a wingspan of about 8 to 12 millimeters. They have slender bodies, and their wings are mottled gray-brown. The larvae are small, creamy-white caterpillars.

Food

Life Cycle: The life cycle of the Angoumois Grain Moth includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Female moths lay eggs on or near stored grains, and the emerging larvae bore into the grains, creating tunnels. The pupal stage occurs within the grain, and adult moths emerge to continue the life cycle.
Reproduction: Angoumois Grain Moths reproduce rapidly, and the development from egg to adult can be completed in a few weeks, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

Angoumois Grain Moths are commonly found in stored grains, especially in facilities where corn is stored in bulk. They infest a variety of cereal products, including corn, barley, oats, and wheat. The larvae bore into the grains, causing damage and reducing the quality of stored products.

Description

The primary food source for Angoumois Grain Moths is stored grains, with a particular preference for corn. They infest corn kernels by boring into them, consuming the endosperm, and creating tunnels. The larvae feed on the internal portions of the grains, leading to significant damage.