Wax moth

Summary

Wax moth is a pest of beekeeping, specifically of stored or unattended wax comb. Although there are 2 species of wax moth, greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) and lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella), the two species commonly coexist.

Once the environmental conditions are favourable, adult wax moth activity will rise, with an ever-increasing population dependent on available food.

This Primefact contains information on:

• the greater wax moth life cycle
• the influence of temperature on the life cycle
• preventing damage from larvae
• control methods for wax moth