Chrysellus Flower Moth
Common NameChrysellus Flower Moth
Scientific NameSchinia chrysellus
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, golden-brown, reddish-brown
HabitatPrairies, grasslands, open woodlands, areas with Liatris host plants
Geographic RangeCentral and southern United States
Host PlantsLiatris (Blazing Star) species
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the flowers and developing seeds of Liatris species. They pupate in the soil over winter, emerging as adults in late summer to early fall.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the broad white median band on the forewings, bordered by irregular golden-brown or reddish-brown patterns, and its association with Liatris plants.
Description
This small to medium-sized moth has distinctive forewings featuring a broad, clean white band across the middle, sharply contrasting with irregular golden-brown or reddish-brown markings at the base and outer margin. Its head and thorax are densely covered in brown scales.
