Alyssum Wave
Common NameAlyssum Wave
Scientific NameIdaea alyssumata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspale brown, speckled dark brown
HabitatDry, warm areas, rocky slopes, garrigue, maquis, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa
Host PlantsAlyssum, Thymus, Teucrium, Helianthemum, Genista
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slender 'loopers' feeding on low-growing plants, overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale, speckled ground color, faint wavy lines, and a prominent series of dark dots along the outer wing margin. Genitalia examination may be necessary for definitive identification from closely related species.
Description
A small, delicate moth with pale yellowish-brown wings heavily speckled with darker brown scales, featuring faint wavy crosslines and a distinctive row of dark dots along the outer margin.
