Ash-bark Knot-horn
Common NameAsh-bark Knot-horn
Scientific NameApomyelois bistriatella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, areas with ash trees
Geographic RangeEurope, including the UK, and parts of Asia
Host PlantsFraxinus excelsior (European ash)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on dead or diseased bark of ash trees, often under lichen or moss. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for its cryptic bark-like coloration and the two subtle darker bands on the forewings. It is typically found in areas with ash trees.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled forewings displaying shades of brown, black, and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It typically has two indistinct darker transverse bands across the forewings.
