Dark Pine Knot-horn
Common NameDark Pine Knot-horn
Scientific NameDioryctria abietella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatConiferous forests, woodlands, plantations
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Europe, Asia, North America)
Host Plantspine, spruce, fir, larch
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are borers, feeding on cones, shoots, or bark of various coniferous trees, sometimes causing damage in forestry.
Identification TipsLook for its mottled grey-brown and white forewing pattern, relatively small size, and its presence in coniferous habitats. Specific markings include a pale subterminal line and darker basal and median areas.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with forewings mottled in shades of grey, brown, and white, often featuring darker bands and a pale subterminal line.
