Arrhenophanes perspicilla
Common NameArrhenophanes perspicilla
Scientific NameArrhenophanes perspicilla
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyArrhenophaninae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorscream, pale brown, reddish-brown, purple, blue
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, associated with decaying wood
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (Neotropical region)
Host Plantsfungi, bracket fungi
Flight PeriodYear-round (in tropical climates)
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are fungivorous, primarily feeding on bracket fungi and other types of fungi found on decaying wood.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive large, reddish-brown patches on the forewings, which possess an iridescent purplish-blue sheen in their center, set against a pale cream or light brown background. The robust, hairy body is also characteristic.
Description
This is a small to medium-sized moth with pale cream to light brown forewings, each featuring a prominent, large, reddish-brown patch with a striking iridescent purplish-blue center. The wings also display darker brown mottling and markings along the margins, and the body is densely covered in pale, fluffy scales.
