What is the typical wingspan range for the adult Greater Wax Moth (Galleria mellonella)?
Answer
30 to 40 millimeters
The adult stage of the Greater Wax Moth, *Galleria mellonella*, is characterized by a specific size range for its wingspan. Most reliable observations place this measurement consistently between 30 millimeters and 40 millimeters. More precisely, certain measurements narrow this down to a range spanning from 30 mm up to 37 mm. When converting this size to imperial units, it corresponds roughly to 1.25 to 1.5 inches. This larger size is a key differentiator when beekeepers encounter wax moths and need to confirm if they are dealing with the more destructive Greater Wax Moth versus its smaller counterpart, the Lesser Wax Moth.
Related Questions
What is the typical wingspan range for the adult Greater Wax Moth (Galleria mellonella)?What is the crucial physical characteristic distinguishing the Galleria mellonella larva's head capsule?What structure do Galleria mellonella larvae spin as they move through the comb structure?How is the forewing appearance of the adult wax moth generally described?What is the typical appearance of the hindwings on an adult wax moth compared to the forewings?What visual distinction aids in identifying male versus female *Galleria mellonella* coloration?What wingspan range is cited for reports of a general or Lesser Wax Moth (*Achroia grisella*)?Approximately how long can the *Galleria mellonella* caterpillar grow before pupation?What specific materials are consumed by the destructive larval stage of the wax moth?Due to what appearance do resting adult moths blend in near hive entrances or on the ground?