Capps' Petrophila
Common NameCapps' Petrophila
Scientific NamePetrophila cappsi
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyAcentropinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsgold, brown, white, black
HabitatStreams, rivers, and other freshwater aquatic environments (larval habitat); riparian zones for adults
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsalgae, diatoms
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are aquatic, residing in silken shelters on submerged rocks in flowing water, where they graze on algae. Pupation typically occurs underwater or at the water's edge.
Identification TipsLook for the unique combination of mottled forewings and the prominent black, often iridescent, spots on the white hindwings, especially when found near freshwater streams or rivers.
Description
A small moth characterized by its mottled golden-brown and white forewings, and white hindwings with a distinctive subterminal band of black spots often edged with iridescent scales.
