Ethmia arctostaphylella
Common NameEthmia arctostaphylella
Scientific NameEthmia arctostaphylella
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyEthmiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatChaparral, woodlands, coastal scrub
Geographic RangeWestern North America (California, Baja California)
Host PlantsArctostaphylos, Comarostaphylis diversifolia
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of manzanita (*Arctostaphylos*) and summer holly (*Comarostaphylis diversifolia*). Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct white and black forewing pattern, characterized by a large black patch near the base and scattered black spots on a white ground color. The dark hindwings are also a useful identifier.
Description
A small moth with striking white forewings adorned with irregular black patches and speckles, and dark grey hindwings. The head and thorax are predominantly white with some black markings.
