Major pest of grains, dried fruits, warehouses, mills and food processing plants. Widely present in warm climates. Up to 400 eggs per female are laid randomly over the surface of bulk or bagged products. Larvae move on the surface of grains, produce webs and feed mostly on grain kernels. Just like Ephestia cautella , they produce large quantity of silk, shortly before becoming pupae.
Pupae develop inside and on the surface of products.
Adults are short lived and do not feed. They are active at night and concentrate infestation on the surface of the grain mass. Very common insect in tropical and temperate climates, mainly attacking tobacco, chocolate and dried fruits, as well as houses and stores. It is a major pest and also damages flours, milled cereal products, cocoa, etc. Eggs are laid over or near the products.