Angular Aethes Moth
Common NameAngular Aethes Moth
Scientific NameAethes angulatana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyCochylinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorscream, light brown, dark brown
HabitatFields, meadows, open woodlands, and disturbed areas where host plants are abundant.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba.
Host PlantsSolidago spp. (goldenrod), Symphyotrichum spp. (asters)
Flight PeriodMay to September, with peak activity in June and July.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding internally within the stems or flower heads of goldenrod and aster species. Pupation likely occurs within the host plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size and the distinctive angular, somewhat geometric pattern of light and dark brown on the forewings, particularly the prominent dark brown costal patch.
Description
A small moth with forewings featuring a complex, angular pattern of cream, light brown, and dark brown markings, often with a prominent dark patch near the costa.
