Indented Dichomeris Moth
Common NameIndented Dichomeris Moth
Scientific NameDichomeris ligulella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyDichomeridinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, tan
HabitatFields, meadows, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, other legumes
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-tiers or webbers on various herbaceous plants, especially legumes, and pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark central stripe on the forewings with its irregular, often indented, pale margins. The head and thorax are typically pale, contrasting with the dark stripe.
Description
A small moth characterized by its pale tan forewings with a prominent, dark brown central stripe that has an indented or wavy margin, particularly on the inner edge.
