common groundling
Common Namecommon groundling
Scientific NameBlastobasis lacticolella
FamilyBlastobasidae
SubfamilyBlastobasinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, parks, urban areas, often near decaying organic matter.
Geographic RangeWidespread in Europe, introduced to North America and other parts of the world.
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, fungi, seeds, fruits, stored products
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, seeds, or stored food products. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or crevices.
Identification TipsIts small size (10-18mm wingspan), mottled grey-brown cryptic coloration, and distinctive compact, somewhat triangular or heart-shaped resting posture with tightly folded wings are key features. Often found resting on surfaces where it blends in.
Description
A small, cryptically colored micro-moth, typically mottled grey-brown with darker speckles, resting with wings folded tightly over its body, giving it a compact, somewhat triangular or heart-shaped appearance.
