Harlequin Webworm Moth
Common NameHarlequin Webworm Moth
Scientific NameLoxostege cereralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, yellowish-orange
HabitatOpen fields, grasslands, disturbed areas, agricultural lands
Geographic RangeNorth America, Europe, Asia
Host PlantsAmaranthus spp. (pigweed), Chenopodium album (lamb's quarters), alfalfa, clover, various herbaceous weeds
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as webworms, feeding gregariously on host plants within silken webs. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or within the larval web.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark ground color contrasted with striking white spots and yellowish-orange markings. The overall pattern resembles a 'harlequin' costume, making it quite distinctive among small moths.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to blackish wings featuring prominent, irregular white spots and yellowish-orange patches, particularly on the forewings. Its body is dark and segmented.
