What are moths?
Moths are small insects that can cause significant damage to clothing, food, and other household items. While they are usually associated with dark, enclosed spaces, it is important to know that there are different types of moths, each with specific habits and preferences. In this article, we explore the differences between moths that attack clothing and those that infest pantries.
Clothes Moth:
Clothes moths belong to the species Tineola bisselliella, known as the cloth moth. Clothes moths are attracted to natural fibers, especially:
● Wool, silk, cotton and animal hair.
● Clothes or fabrics stored for long periods.
● Places with poor ventilation and dust.
Some signs of infestation are:
● Small, irregular holes in clothing.
● Presence of cocoons or larvae in the tissues.
● Traces of loose threads or sand-like residue.
Pantry Moths
Pantry moths, such as Plodia interpunctella (food moth), are pests that infest dry foods. They prefer:
● Cereals, flours, pasta and nuts.
● Food stored in open or fragile packaging.
● Hot and humid environments.
Some signs of infestation are:
● Presence of fine webs in food packages.
● Small larvae or adult insects flying around inside the pantry.
● Food with lumps or signs of contamination.
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