Explicit Arches
Common NameExplicit Arches
Scientific NameCryphia muralis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, white, black, brown
HabitatUrban and rural areas, especially on walls, rocks, and tree trunks covered with lichens.
Geographic RangeWestern and Central Europe, North Africa, extending eastwards into parts of Asia.
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Xanthoria parietina, Parmelia species)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, overwinter as partially grown larvae, and pupate in a cocoon in spring. There is typically one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive lichen-like pattern of green, white, and dark markings on the forewings, which have a slightly scalloped outer margin. It is often found resting on lichen-covered walls, rocks, or tree trunks.
Description
This small moth exhibits superb camouflage, with forewings intricately mottled in shades of green, white, black, and brown, mimicking lichen-covered surfaces. Its overall appearance is stout-bodied with broad, somewhat scalloped forewings.
