Culladia hastiferalis
Common NameCulladia hastiferalis
Scientific NameCulladia hastiferalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates; warmer months in subtropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on grasses, pupate, and emerge as adult moths. Larvae often live in silken tubes at the base of grass stems.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, prominent hairy palps, and the characteristic cryptic brown/grey streaky pattern on its forewings. It typically rests with its wings tightly folded along its body, resembling a piece of dry grass.
Description
A small, slender moth with a pointed head and long, narrow wings held tightly against its body at rest. Its forewings are mottled light brown and greyish-brown with darker longitudinal streaks, providing excellent camouflage.
