Acrobasis romanella
Common NameAcrobasis romanella
Scientific NameAcrobasis romanella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, silvery-white
HabitatOak woodlands, forests, suburban areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Quebec to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the leaves of oak trees, often creating silken tubes or webs. Pupation typically occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the mottled grey and black forewing pattern with distinct dark transverse lines, and its known association with oak host plants. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend with bark or lichen.
Description
This is a small, slender moth with mottled grey and black forewings, featuring prominent dark transverse bands and scattered silvery-white scales, giving it a cryptic appearance. Its head and thorax are also grey, blending seamlessly with the wing pattern.
