The yellow v moth (Oinophila v-flava) is a tineid moth widespread in many temperate climates.It is not clear where this species originated, but some have suggested because it is well-represented in Africa that it may have been introduced from there into Europe (where it is common in central and south western European countries, less common but found in Great Britain, its type locality) and Indonesia/Malaysia, where it is somewhat less common (Meyrick 1928, cited in Davis 1978).It was first reported in the United States (California) in 1951, and since then it is known to range throughout much of coastal California.It is also reported from Hawaii (Powell 1964).Since it is an inconspicuous moth, the yellow v moth’s distribution is likely be greater than reported.
Adults are small, females slightly larger, with wingspan up to 10 mm (0.4 inches), and larvae are reported up to 8.3 mm (0.33 inches) long.A slender moth, their grey-brown forewings have jagged, v-shaped, pale bands across their wings.They have a smooth head and long antennae.
Larvae are scavengers on vegetable matter, and in Europe considered a minor household pest, building silk galleries in pantries and wine cellars, where they tunnel through and eat cork and fungi growing on damp surfaces and dried foods.In cooler climates, notably Great Britain, there is one generation, with adults flying in July/August, and living entirely indoors.In warmer climates (e.g. records from California) there are multiple flights (multivoltine), perhaps even continuous.
(Davis 1978; Powell 1964)
