Desertana Moth
Common NameDesertana Moth
Scientific NameEpiblema desertana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan, black
HabitatSteppes, dry grasslands, semi-deserts
Geographic RangeCentral Asia, Eastern Europe, parts of the Middle East
Host PlantsArtemisia campestris, Artemisia species
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding within the stems of *Artemisia* species. Pupation occurs within the larval feeding gallery or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the specific cryptic pattern of the forewings (darker basal patch, lighter median fascia, and mottled termen), and its association with *Artemisia* host plants in its specific range. Genitalic examination is often required for definitive species identification.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with forewings exhibiting a mix of light brown, grey, and dark brown/black scales, often with a darker basal area and a lighter, irregular central patch.
