Ethmia candidella
Common NameEthmia candidella
Scientific NameEthmia candidella
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyEthmiinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatDry woodlands, scrublands, open areas where host plants grow
Geographic RangeWestern North America (e.g., California, Arizona, Nevada)
Host PlantsPhacelia
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on Phacelia species, pupating in a cocoon before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its contrasting white and black mottled forewing pattern, with a dark head and thorax.
Description
A small moth with striking white forewings heavily marked with irregular black spots and streaks, and a dark head and thorax.
