Aglossa Cuprina - Forensic Importance

Forensic Importance

A. cuprina is often involved in stored product entomology. Stored product entomologists often advise producers on ways to reduce the chances of insect infestation and thus remain under food defect action levels. A. cuprina is a common aspect of stored product entomology due to its caterpillars’ feeding habits. Grease moth larvae infest dried grain products and as it feeds it produces a silken substance that intertwines with the surrounding product. With substantial infestations, the larvae will spread throughout the product and with them spread their silk rendering the product unsellable. Most infestations occur in products that are stored for long periods of time in storage facilities.

In addition to stored product entomology, recently evidence suggests that A. cuprina may soon play a role in Medicocriminal entomology. A. cuprina was recently found feeding on the greasy remains of a deceased individual. The use of A. cuprina as an insect of significant forensic importance is still being researched.