The Greater Wax Moth:1 Adult Behavior2

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Abstract
The behavior of adult Galleria mellonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) was observed throughout the year in apiaries of Apis mellifera L. Generally, eclosion occurred in the evening, and moths left the hive to expand their wings even if bees were not present. Soon aftr dark, the moths flew into trees, and the males were seldom observed again. Females that tried to enter a hive in the early evening were chased by the bees, but ca. 2 h after dark, the bees were no longer aggressive. Oviposition in hives started ca. 24 h after eclosion and continued for 4 nights. Each morning the moths left the hives shortly before daylight and flew into trees. Females generally visited strong bee colonies and not decoy hives containing comb or weak colonies. Mated female moths seemed to be attracted to some hives and completely avoided others. In winter when the temperature was 21°C or lower, adults stayed in the hives that contained brood.

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