Brown Arches Moth
Common NameBrown Arches Moth
Scientific NameApamea lithoxylaea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)46
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, white
HabitatWoodlands, fens, marshes, gardens, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Anatolia, Armenia, Azerbaijan
Host PlantsDactylis glomerata, Elymus repens, Festuca spp.
Flight PeriodLate June to early August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the roots and stems of various grasses, pupating in an earthen cocoon underground. The species typically overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled brown and cream forewings with distinct white-outlined reniform and orbicular stigmata, which often resemble arches. The overall pale, straw-like coloration is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled light brown and cream forewings, featuring prominent white-outlined reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are paler and unmarked.
