Florida Pink Scavenger
Common NameFlorida Pink Scavenger
Scientific NameUndetermined Genus species
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyUnknown
Wingspan (mm)10
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, red
HabitatVaried terrestrial habitats, including forests, grasslands, and gardens
Geographic RangeUndetermined, likely North America (given 'Florida' in the name)
Host PlantsVarious plants, often feeding on leaves, stems, or seeds
Flight PeriodSpring to fall, often multi-brooded
Lifecycle NotesLarvae typically feed internally as leaf miners, stem borers, or seed feeders, or externally on various plant parts. Pupation usually occurs in a cocoon on the host plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, slender body, mottled brown/tan wings, long antennae, and distinctively large, upturned labial palps. The reddish eyes are also a helpful visual cue.
Description
A small, slender micro-moth characterized by its mottled brown and tan cryptic wing pattern, prominent upturned labial palps, and reddish eyes. Its antennae are long and slender, and the abdomen is somewhat pointed and often held slightly upturned.
