The wax moth (Galeria mellonella) is an economical pest to honey bees and they are widespread in particularly low altitude and temperate regions (Allan, 2000). Wax Moth's mature, pupae, and egg individual stages do not do damage to honeycombs. However, their larvae stages do different levels of destruction to honeycombs in the appropriate environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, food) (Ahmad 1994). However, certain chemical and non-chemical methods can be done to avoid or eliminate the wax moth before it disturbs the hive. The wax moth has a complex life style that can lead to a destruction of bee hives but can be easily prevented with proper treatment. .
A wax moth has a complex and fascinating life cycle before it is able to disturb the honey combs of the bee hives. The egg of wax moth is a quite small, white and somewhat oval in shape, which is why it can go overlooked by the bee keeper or the bees. The shape and size of the egg ultimately depends on the spot and character of the site in which they are laid. The whole life cycle of the moth is dependent upon suitable temperature range and an adequate food supply (Sommerville 2009). Once larvae have hatched they will begin feed on the honey and pollen found within the hive. It has been found that old brood combs contain more of the necessary nutrients for the larval development (Grout). These larvae also tend to be bigger and have a higher egg laying capacity. Once the proper nutrients have been reached and they are strong enough, the larvae will then being to burrow into pollen storage cells. At this stage they are relatively safe from the bees because as they burrow further they leave behind a mass of webs and debris (Akratanakul). When a wax moth attacks on colonies, the female will enter the hive at night through the entrance or through cracks in the wall. She then deposits her eggs in small cracks and cervices where the eggs will go undetected by bees.
