Aristotelia fungivorella
Common NameAristotelia fungivorella
Scientific NameAristotelia fungivorella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, and areas where its host fungi are present
Geographic RangeEurope (including Great Britain, Ireland, Central and Northern Europe)
Host PlantsPhellinus igniarius, Fomes fomentarius
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are fungivorous, developing and feeding internally within the fruiting bodies of bracket fungi, particularly *Phellinus igniarius* and *Fomes fomentarius*. Pupation also occurs within the fungal host.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the complex cryptic pattern of brown and white on the forewings, and the prominent, upturned labial palps which are clearly visible in profile.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its intricate, mottled forewing pattern of brown, white, and dark speckles, providing excellent camouflage. It possesses long, segmented antennae and distinctive, upturned labial palps.
