Blotched Monopis Moth
Common NameBlotched Monopis Moth
Scientific NameMonopis obviella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)13
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown, golden brown
HabitatSynanthropic (human dwellings, warehouses, cellars), also natural environments with decaying organic matter and fungi.
Geographic RangeWidespread in Europe, Asia, North Africa, and introduced to North America (Holarctic).
Host Plantsfungi, decaying organic matter, animal detritus (feathers, fur, wool)
Flight PeriodMay to October (often bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on a wide range of organic materials such as fungi, decaying wood, and animal products, often within silken tubes or cases. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the bright white head, the large and distinct irregular white patch on the forewing, and often a small, transparent ocellus (eye-spot) within the darker areas of the forewing.
Description
A small moth characterized by a bright white head and a prominent, irregular white patch on the basal half of the forewing, sharply contrasting with dark brown and golden-brown blotches towards the wing tip.
