Detritus Moth
Common NameDetritus Moth
Scientific NameBlastobasis adustella
FamilyBlastobasidae
SubfamilyBlastobasinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, beige, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, disturbed areas, often near decaying plant matter
Geographic RangeEurope, North America (introduced), and other parts of the world
Host Plantsdecaying plant material, seeds, fungi, dried fruit
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on a wide range of decaying organic matter, seeds, and fungi. They pupate in a cocoon, often within their food source.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, cryptic mottled brown coloration, and the characteristic upturned scale tuft at the end of the abdomen when at rest. It typically holds its wings folded flat over its body.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled brown and beige forewings, providing excellent camouflage against bark. It often has a darker head and thorax, and a distinctive upturned tuft of scales at the end of its abdomen.
