What wingspan range is cited for reports of a general or Lesser Wax Moth (*Achroia grisella*)?
Answer
12 mm to 17 mm
Distinguishing between the Greater Wax Moth (*G. mellonella*) and the Lesser Wax Moth (*Achroia grisella*) often relies heavily on physical size, particularly wingspan. While the Greater Wax Moth is associated with the larger 30 mm to 40 mm range, general reports concerning the lesser relative or wax moths described without precise species identification cite a notably smaller wingspan. This significantly smaller range is reported to be between 12 millimeters and 17 millimeters. This size discrepancy is critical for beekeepers, as focusing on the larger size range typically indicates the presence of *G. mellonella*, the primary culprit in serious comb destruction.
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