Elegant Aristotelia
Common NameElegant Aristotelia
Scientific NameAristotelia elegantella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)9
Primary Colorsbrown, black, cream, iridescent
HabitatFields, disturbed areas, open woodlands where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsAmbrosia artemisiifolia (common ragweed), Ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, boring into the stems or mining the leaves of their host plants, primarily ragweed species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the unique combination of brown, black, and cream banding, and the prominent iridescent scales on its forewings. The tufted hindwing margin is also a key feature.
Description
A small moth characterized by intricate patterns of brown, black, and cream bands across its wings, adorned with striking iridescent scales. It has a somewhat flattened appearance at rest and distinctive tufted hindwing margins.
