Horehound Longhorn
Common NameHorehound Longhorn
Scientific NameNemophora fasciella
FamilyAdelidae
SubfamilyAdelinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Primary Colorscopper, purple, gold, orange
HabitatDry, calcareous grasslands, chalk downland, open woodland edges
Geographic RangeEurope (Western and Central), extending to parts of Asia
Host PlantsWhite Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae initially feed on flowers and seeds of White Horehound, then descend to the ground to feed on detritus or roots, overwintering in a silken case before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange head, extremely long white-tipped antennae (especially in males), and the distinctive iridescent coppery-purple wing coloration, often found near its host plant, White Horehound.
Description
This small moth features a bright orange head and exceptionally long, white-tipped antennae, with iridescent forewings displaying coppery-bronze, purple, and golden sheens.
