Achroia

Achroia is a a small genus of moths in the Pyralidae family, which is best known for one species that has become a model organism in behavioral and acoustic research.

Moths of this genus typically have a wingspan of 18–25 mm. The forewings are narrow, pale gray to brownish, sometimes with faint darker markings. Hindwings are lighter, whitish to gray, with fringed edges. The larvae feed on wax, pollen, and detritus in beehives, similar to wax moths (Galleria). The species Achroia grisella (the lesser wax moth) is notable because males produce ultrasonic mating songs by vibrating their wings, and these songs are among the best-studied acoustic courtship signals in moths. Achroia grisella is also considered a pest of beehives, as the larvae tunnel through wax combs, feeding on wax, pollen, and sometimes brood. The species is also used as a model organism in research on sexual selection, acoustic communication, and insect behavior.