PYRALIDAE – THE PYRALIDS
The Pyralidae are a family of nocturnal moths, also known as “pyralids.” They exhibit great diversity in appearance, size, and lifestyle. The caterpillars of many Pyralidae species are crop pests, feeding on various types of plants including cereals, vegetables, and fruits. Some members of this family build protective silk cocoons in which they develop. Pyralidae are found worldwide and play various roles in ecosystems, ranging from pests to pollinators and decomposers.
- Narrow-winged Synaphe (Synaphe punctalis)
Characteristics
- Small to medium-sized moths (wingspan 15–35 mm)
- Narrow wings, often triangular, sometimes slightly rolled
- Coloration: brown, gray, beige, sometimes with metallic sheen
- Head sometimes tufted (prominent labial palps forming a “snout”)
- Nocturnal or crepuscular flight, often attracted to light
Habitat
Pyralidae inhabit:
- Dry habitats, fallows, grasslands, scrublands, cultivated areas
- Human-influenced environments: homes, silos, attics
- Rice fields, crop fields, food storage areas
- Coastal zones, refuse sites, natural shelters rich in organic matter
Biology
- Eggs laid on host plants, stored food, or organic matter
- Varied larvae: phytophagous, saprophagous, detritivorous, stock feeders
- Some spin silk tunnels or live in groups
- Pupation in a simple cocoon, often in the substrate or nearby environment
- Multiple generations per year for the most widespread species
Common genera and species
- Plodia interpunctella – Indian meal moth: cosmopolitan, common indoors
- Ephestia kuehniella, Cadra cautella – Frequent in stored goods (flour, cereals)
- Aglossa pinguinalis – Grease moth, found in cellars, stables
- Pyralis farinalis – Common in granaries, historically in mills
- Hypsopygia, Orthopygia, Synaphe – Genera often found in dry or ruderal habitats
Special features
- Ecologically diverse family, often inconspicuous
- Domestic species well adapted to human environments, active year-round indoors
- Identification challenging from photos: relies on wing venation, palps, and genitalia
- Some saprophagous species are useful in decomposition processes
