Erechthias capnitis
Common NameErechthias capnitis
Scientific NameErechthias capnitis
FamilyTineidae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, disturbed areas, often associated with human dwellings
Geographic RangeWidespread, including parts of Europe, Asia, North America, and other regions
Host Plantsdecaying wood, fungi, plant debris, stored plant products
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year, active throughout warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, and plant debris. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the small size, mottled brown and tan forewings with dark spots, and the characteristic raised tuft of scales near the wing tip when at rest. The head and thorax are also mottled brown.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and tan forewings featuring irregular dark brown to black spots and patches, and a distinctive tuft of scales at the apex of the forewing when at rest.
