Aptata Carpet
Image: Ben Sale from Stevenage, UK (CC BY 2.0)
Common NameAptata Carpet
Scientific NameLarentia aptata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatAlpine meadows, rocky slopes, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope and Central Asia, particularly mountainous regions (Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians, Balkan, Turkey, Caucasus)
Host PlantsAlchemilla, Galium
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as 'loopers' or 'inchworms' due to their characteristic locomotion. They feed on host plants and typically pupate in the soil or among leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the specific combination of cryptic grey, brown, and white banding, particularly the prominent dark central band on the forewings. Found in mountainous regions of Europe and Central Asia.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic grey, brown, and white mottled forewings, characterized by a distinct darker central band and wavy lines. The hindwings are paler with faint banding.
