Aetole unipunctella
Common NameAetole unipunctella
Scientific NameAetole unipunctella
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-orange, dark grey, silver
HabitatWoodlands, meadows, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsSolidago, Aster
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are stem borers, feeding internally on the stems of various host plants, primarily species of goldenrod (Solidago) and aster (Aster).
Identification TipsKey identification features include the metallic silvery head and thorax, and the distinct pattern of reddish-orange transverse bands on dark grey, iridescent forewings. Its small size is also characteristic.
Description
A small moth with a metallic silvery head and thorax. Its forewings are dark grey with prominent reddish-orange transverse bands, often exhibiting an iridescent sheen.
