Chambers' Twirler
Common NameChambers' Twirler
Scientific NameGnorimoschema chambersella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, orange
HabitatDry fields, grasslands, open woodlands, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNorth America (primarily central and western United States)
Host PlantsSolidago (goldenrod), Aster
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gall-makers, developing inside stem galls on various Asteraceae plants, particularly goldenrod, and pupating within these galls.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled brown and grey forewing pattern with distinct dark streaks, and the two small, often dark-ringed, orange-brown spots on each forewing. Often requires microscopic examination for definitive identification from similar species.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring dark streaks and two small, dark-ringed orange-brown spots on each forewing.
