Using Parasitic Wasps to Control Clothes Moths Infestations

Understanding Clothes Moths (Kleidermotten) and Their Life Cycle

Clothes moths or fabric moths (kleidermotten in German) are insects that can cause damage to clothing, fabrics, carpets and other household items. The adult moths lay eggs that hatch into larvae or caterpillars which feed on keratin fibers and can leave holes in fabrics.

Common Species of Clothes Moths

There are two common species of clothes moths:

• Webbing clothes moths (Tineola bisselliella) - leave silken passages and tunnels on fabrics
• Case-bearing clothes moths (Tinea pellionella) - larvae spin silk cases which they drag along with them

The Clothes Moth Life Cycle

The life cycle of clothes moths typically goes through 4 stages:

1. Adult female moths lay eggs on fabrics, carpets or other keratin-containing materials
2. Eggs hatch into larvae which feed on materials, causing damage
3. Larvae eventually pupate and spin cocoons made of fabric fibers
4. Adult moths emerge from cocoons to mate and lay more eggs to continue the cycle

Using Parasitic Wasps (Schlupfwespen) to Control Clothes Moths

A natural and effective method to control clothes moth infestations is using parasitic wasps known as schlupfwespen in German.

Understanding Parasitic Wasps

Parasitic wasps are a large group of insects that lay their eggs inside or on the bodies of other arthropods. The wasp larvae hatch and feed on the host insect, eventually killing it.

How the Schlupfwespen Control Clothes Moths

There are certain species of microscopic schlupfwespen that attack clothes moth larvae:

• Female wasps lay eggs inside clothes moth larvae
• Wasp larvae hatch and feed on moth larvae
• Clothes moth larvae die before they can cause further damage

As each parasitic wasp larva can kill up to 250 host insects, they are an extremely effective biological pest control.

When and Where to Use Schlupfwespen

Here are some tips on using schlupfwespen to control clothes moths:

• Release them early - as soon as first moths are spotted
• Distribute evenly around infested areas like carpets, closets, furniture etc.
• Best used in enclosed spaces and storage areas
• Most effective when host insect population is low

Other Methods to Eliminate Clothes Moths

While schlupfwespen provide biological control, you can combine them with other strategies to get rid of clothes moths:

Prevention

• Keep fabrics and fibres very clean and store properly in airtight containers
• Inspect second hand clothing and fabrics thoroughly before bringing home
• Clean wardrobes, dressers and storage areas regularly to remove eggs/larvae
• Use cedar blocks, lavender, bay leaves as natural moth repellents
• Seal cracks, crevices and holes in walls/floors to prevent entry and breeding

Chemical Methods

In case of severe infestations:

• Use fast acting insecticide sprays containing pyrethroids, neonicotinoids etc.
• Fumigation using special fumigants under expert guidance

Freezing Treatment

• Keep infested items in below 0°C temperature for at least 4 days to kill all life stages

Storing Clean Fabrics Moth-Free

Finally, once you have gotten rid of the moths, make sure to store clean laundry and fabrics correctly:

• Store fabrics in air-tight plastic bins or bags after cleaning/drying
• Add a schlupfwespen card or strip inside boxes as bio control
• Keep closets and drawers clean by regular vacuuming and cleaning
• Use cedar blocks in wardrobes to repel moths

By understanding the kleidermotten life cycle and using schlupfwespen along with integrated pest management, you can effectively protect your valuable clothes, fabrics and carpets.

FAQs

What species of parasitic wasps attack clothes moths?

Some species that are effective at controlling clothes moths include Trichogramma evanescens, Habrobracon hebetor, and Venturia canescens.

Will the schlupfwespen wasps sting me or my pets?

No, these tiny parasitic wasps do not sting humans or animals. They only attack moth larvae to lay their eggs.

How long does it take for the wasps to kill clothes moths?

The wasp eggs typically hatch in 2-3 days and the larvae will kill the host moth larvae within 5-7 days.

Can I release schlupfwespen more than once?

Yes, you can make multiple releases 2-3 weeks apart to control infestations. But also use other methods like cleaning and prevention.