Buckwheat Root Borer Moth
Common NameBuckwheat Root Borer Moth
Scientific NameCarmenta giliae
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, orange, clear
HabitatDry, open areas, grasslands, chaparral, and disturbed sites where host plants grow
Geographic RangeWestern North America (e.g., California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado)
Host PlantsGilia capitata, Gilia rubra, Gilia cana
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the roots of Gilia plants, where they feed and develop. Pupation occurs within the root or near the soil line, and adults emerge to fly during the day.
Identification TipsLook for the wasp-like appearance with a black body and distinct orange bands on the abdomen. The wings are mostly clear with dark veins and margins, and it has characteristic clubbed antennae. It is typically found in association with its Gilia host plants.
Description
This moth has a slender, black body with prominent orange bands on its abdomen, ending in a black anal tuft. Its wings are largely transparent with dark veins and margins, and the forewings have a dark, somewhat iridescent blue-black leading edge.
