Ethmia sphaerosticha
Common NameEthmia sphaerosticha
Scientific NameEthmia sphaerosticha
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyEthmiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatDry open woodlands, chaparral, desert scrub
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (e.g., California, Arizona) and Mexico
Host PlantsPhacelia
Flight PeriodMarch to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are known to feed on plants in the genus Phacelia (Boraginaceae). Pupation typically occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its white forewings with large, distinct black spots. The specific arrangement and size of these spots, along with its slender body, help differentiate it from other Ethmia species.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking white forewings adorned with prominent, irregularly shaped black spots. The head and thorax are also white with black markings.
