Gracilaria quinquistrigella
Common NameGracilaria quinquistrigella
Scientific NameGracilaria quinquistrigella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyGracillariinae
Wingspan (mm)7.5
Primary Colorswhite, brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas with host maple trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and Canada)
Host PlantsAcer rubrum, Acer saccharum
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, feeding internally within the leaves of maple trees, creating characteristic mines before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive slender, twig-like resting posture and the intricate pattern of white and brown longitudinal stripes on its forewings. Its association with maple trees as host plants is also a key identifier.
Description
A very small, slender moth with long, narrow wings held tightly along its body, giving it a twig-like appearance. Its forewings are intricately patterned with longitudinal white, brown, and dark brown stripes and speckles.
