Blister Coneworm Moth
Common NameBlister Coneworm Moth
Scientific NameDioryctria disclusa
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)26
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey, tan
HabitatConiferous forests, pine plantations
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsPinus taeda, Pinus echinata, Pinus virginiana, Pinus rigida
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are coneworms, feeding inside the cones or shoots of pine trees, causing damage to developing seeds or new growth. They overwinter as larvae and pupate within the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic, bark-like pattern, particularly the wavy dark lines and reddish-brown scaling on the forewings. It is often found in areas with its pine host plants.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown, black, and grey forewings featuring wavy dark bands and lighter, often reddish-brown, patches, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
