Goldenrod Gall Moth
Common NameGoldenrod Gall Moth
Scientific NameGnorimoschema gallaesolidaginis
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream, tan
HabitatMeadows, fields, roadsides, and other areas where goldenrod plants grow
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread across the continent where goldenrod is present)
Host PlantsGoldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larva of this moth creates a prominent spindle-shaped gall on the stem of goldenrod plants, where it feeds and overwinters. Pupation occurs inside the gall in spring, with adults emerging in late summer or fall.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the unique dark anterior and pale posterior forewing pattern, and its strong association with goldenrod plants, especially the characteristic spindle-shaped stem galls it induces.
Description
A small moth characterized by its distinctive two-toned forewings, which are dark brown to black on the anterior half and a contrasting pale cream or tan on the posterior half, often with some darker mottling near the wing tips.
