Arrowhead
Common NameArrowhead
Scientific NamePlatytes alpinella
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, heathland, dry sandy areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the roots and lower stems of various grasses, living in silken tubes near the ground. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent white longitudinal streak on the forewing, the dark costal spots, and the wavy white bands on the hindwings, distinguishing it from other grass-veneers.
Description
A small moth with brownish-ochreous forewings featuring a distinctive white longitudinal streak from the base, several dark spots along the costa, and a darker subterminal line. Its hindwings are paler with noticeable wavy white transverse bands.
