What resources, besides beeswax, do wax moth larvae consume?
Answer
Pollen and honey
Although wax moth larvae are infamous for their voracious consumption of beeswax, which compromises the structural foundation of the comb, their diet extends beyond just the structural wax component. The larvae also target the vital resources stored by the bees within the cells. This includes consuming pollen, which is essential for rearing brood, and honey, which serves as the colony's primary energy source. By feeding on both wax and stored provisions, the larvae degrade the comb both structurally and nutritionally, rendering it unusable for future beekeeping purposes.
Related Questions
Which stage of the wax moth causes substantial damage to hive materials?What distinguishes the Greater Wax Moth (*Galleria mellonella*) wingspan?What cold temperature kills all wax moth stages in stored comb?What resources, besides beeswax, do wax moth larvae consume?How do strong, healthy honeybee colonies primarily defend against wax moths?What minimum temperature is required for effective heat treatment of infested combs?Outside of apiculture, what role does *Galleria mellonella* larva serve in laboratories?How do the forewings of the Lesser Wax Moth (*Achroia grisella*) compare to *Galleria mellonella*?What granular substance found in the comb indicates active feeding by wax moth larvae?What is a primary outcome when wax moth larvae infest a weak honeybee colony?Besides visual inspection, what physical property might warn of severe wax moth damage in stored supers?