Crisonalis Water Moth
Common NameCrisonalis Water Moth
Scientific NameParapoynx crisonalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyAcentropinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, yellowish-orange
HabitatFreshwater ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, and wetlands with abundant aquatic vegetation.
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America (USA and Canada).
Host PlantsPotamogeton (pondweeds), Nymphaea (water lilies), other aquatic macrophytes
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are aquatic, living in silken cases on submerged plants and breathing with gills. Pupation occurs in cocoons attached to host plants, often above the waterline.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey cryptic pattern with wavy lines, and its association with aquatic environments. Careful examination of wing markings is needed to distinguish from similar Parapoynx species.
Description
A small moth with cryptically patterned wings, featuring mottled shades of brown and grey, distinct dark wavy transverse lines, and scattered yellowish-orange spots.
