Beet moth
Common NameBeet moth
Scientific NameScrobipalpa ocellatella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGnorimoschemini
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, grey
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia, North America
Host Plantssugar beet, fodder beet, spinach, quinoa, mangold
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners or bore into the stems and roots of host plants, causing damage. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon in the soil or on the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, characteristic mottled brown and black cryptic wing pattern, and its association with beet and other Chenopodiaceae host plants.
Description
A small, slender moth with narrow, pointed wings, displaying a mottled pattern of brown, tan, and black scales, providing excellent camouflage.
