Epiblema luctuosissima
Common NameEpiblema luctuosissima
Scientific NameEpiblema luctuosissima
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, likely Asteraceae (e.g., thistles, goldenrod)
Flight PeriodLate spring to early fall
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically internal feeders, often boring into stems or forming galls on herbaceous host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, mottled grey-brown forewings, and the prominent, irregular, lighter tan or cream-colored patch along the dorsal margin of the forewing.
Description
A small, mottled grey-brown moth with a distinctive, irregular, lighter tan or cream-colored patch on the dorsal margin of the forewing.
