Alligatorweed Stemborer Moth
Common NameAlligatorweed Stemborer Moth
Scientific NameArgyractis allionealis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyAcentropinae
Wingspan (mm)11
Primary Colorstan, brown, dark brown
HabitatAquatic environments, wetlands, ponds, slow-moving water bodies where alligatorweed grows
Geographic RangeNative to South America, introduced to southeastern North America (USA) and parts of Central America
Host PlantsAlligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations, typically April to October in warmer regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are aquatic, living in silken cases attached to alligatorweed stems, into which they bore and feed. Pupation occurs within the stem or in a cocoon attached to the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive upturned labial palpi, and the mottled brown and tan wing pattern. Its strong association with alligatorweed is a key identifier.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its prominent, upturned snout-like labial palpi. Its forewings are mottled in shades of tan and brown with darker markings, providing excellent camouflage.
