Achroia grisella
Lesser Wax Moth
Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. One of two species of moths whoes larvae feed on beeswax. The Lesser Wax Moth generally avoids combs actively used by honeybees, but destroys older comb. They play a useful role in recycling old comb, although beekeepers generally regard them as a pest. The moths can be found in bee hives, Bumble Bee nests, and on stored wax comb.
Photograph detail
Slide 1: Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. Adult on wood frame of honeycomb. Redmire. May.
Slide 2: Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. Larva. Redmire. May.
Slide 3: Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. Larva on partially destroyed comb. Redmire. May.
Slide 4: Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. Old honeycomb showing moth larval cocoons and two adult moths. Redmire. May.
Slide 5: Achroia grisella, Lesser Wax Moth. Larval cocoon. Redmire. May.