Indian Meal Moth Infestations
Over the past several years, an increase of Indian meal moth damage has been noted in farm storages where grain has been held over winter. Indian meal moth is not a common pest of stored grain in the state, but it is a serious pest in those relatively few storages where infestations develop.
At least two ways of attacking a stored grain Indian meal moth infestation exist: fumigate as previously discussed, and use a grain surface treatment of Dipel. Dipel 2X is a formulation of toxic proteins isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that are poisonous to lepidopteran larvae when eaten—this is the same active ingredient found in transgenic varieties of Bt corn. Mix ½ pound of Dipel 2X in 10 gallons of water for each 500 square feet of grain surface; sprinkle over grain surface and incorporate into the top 4 inches of grain. Some formulations of Bt toxins are certified for organic use.
See specific crop sections in this guide for information on other insect, mite, and disease pests of stored products.
