Blackberry Skeletonizer
Common NameBlackberry Skeletonizer
Scientific NameAnthophila argenteostrigella
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, metallic
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, fields, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsRubus (blackberries, raspberries, dewberries)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae initially mine leaves of Rubus species, then emerge to skeletonize the leaves, feeding on the tissue between the veins. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon on the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive brown and metallic striped wing pattern, and its association with blackberry and raspberry plants where its larvae skeletonize leaves.
Description
A small moth with narrow, elongated wings featuring prominent longitudinal stripes of dark brown and metallic tan or cream. Its head and thorax are also brownish.
