Moth Larvae in Woolen Textiles
ABSTRACT
Woollen products are more susceptible to moth attack. The damage to the woolen textiles by moth larvae throughout the world is estimated to cost millions of dollars every year. The damage by textile pests to the long lasting items such as carpets, blankets and upholstery fabrics can be very costly not only to the consumer, but also to the textile manufacturer. The main objective of this paper is to understand all about the moth larvae. So, this review paper covers the different types of moth larvae along with their scientific details, specifications & also how these moth larvae damage the different woolen textiles; is discussed.
1. INTRODUCTION
Fabrics can be damaged by textile pests within a few weeks of initial infestation. Whilst moth damage is liable to occur in wool at any time and in fact bales of wool as they arrive from Australia are frequently infested, the damage occurs mainly in storage. Further, during the manufacture, the wool is kept moving passing from one process to another and except when it is stored in top form is unlikely to be attacked. But in stores and in home matters are very different. Textile pests with short life cycles can produce insect populations within 18 months and can seriously damage unprotected carpets and floor coverings. The insects usually remain undetected until the damage has occurred.
About the Authors:
Mayur Basuk & Girish Kherdekar are associated with the Wool Research Association (WRA), Thane.
