Dasycnema Wainscot
Common NameDasycnema Wainscot
Scientific NameLeucania dasycnema
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, damp areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending to parts of Asia
Host Plantsvarious grasses
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are graminivorous, feeding on various grasses. Pupation occurs in the soil or among plant litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its drab, speckled forewings, often with a faint discal spot and a slightly darker subterminal line. Differentiation from similar Leucania species often requires examination of subtle wing markings or genitalia.
Description
A medium-sized, cryptically colored moth with pale brownish-grey forewings finely speckled with darker scales, giving it a mottled appearance. Its robust, hairy body is typical of many wainscot moths.
