Gold-base Tubic
Common NameGold-base Tubic
Scientific NameEsperia sulphurella
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, black, blue
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdead wood (e.g., oak, hawthorn)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on dead wood, often within silken tubes. Pupation occurs inside the wood.
Identification TipsLook for the striking combination of a bright yellow head and thorax, a distinct yellow patch at the base of the brownish forewings, and prominent, upturned labial palps.
Description
A small moth characterized by its bright yellow head and thorax, brownish-bronze forewings with a prominent yellow basal patch and iridescent blue scales, and dark hindwings.
