Black-shaded Platynota Moth
Common NameBlack-shaded Platynota Moth
Scientific NamePlatynota flavedana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, tan
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, agricultural areas, disturbed habitats
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsapple, peach, oak, maple, rose, clover, corn, various deciduous trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous leafrollers, feeding on a wide variety of plants. They pupate within rolled leaves, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark basal patch on the forewing, which contrasts with the lighter, mottled brown and tan areas. The prominent, upturned labial palps are also a helpful feature.
Description
A small moth with mottled reddish-brown, dark brown, and tan forewings, characterized by a prominent dark, almost black, patch on the basal half of the wing.
