wax moth

American  

noun

1. bee moth.

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wax moth British  

noun

1. Also called: honeycomb moth.   bee moth.  a brown pyralid moth, Galleria mellonella, the larvae of which feed on the combs of beehives

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Etymology

Origin of wax moth

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

The researchers are using saliva from the larvae of the greater wax moth, commonly known as wax worms.

From BBC • Oct. 4, 2022

In March, German researchers revealed a bug that feasts on toxic polyurethane, while earlier work has shown that wax moth larvae – usually bred as fish bait – can eat up polythene bags.

From The Guardian • Apr. 8, 2020

Previous research has also shown that some fungi can break down PET plastic, while wax moth larvae – usually bred as fish bait – can eat up polythene bags.

From The Guardian • Mar. 27, 2020

There’s foulbrood—a bacteria that rots bee larvae—and wax moth, the larvae of which feeds on beeswax and honey.

From Scientific American • Jun. 19, 2013

If we combine into one phalanx all the depredators yet named, and compare their ability for mischief with the wax moth, we shall find their powers of destruction but a small item!

From Mysteries of Bee-keeping Explained by Quinby, M. (Moses)