Isophrictis similiella
Common NameIsophrictis similiella
Scientific NameIsophrictis similiella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatDry grasslands, heathland, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsAchillea millefolium
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, typically mining stems or flowerheads of their host plants. Pupation occurs within the plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, elongated resting posture, streaked cryptic forewings, and the prominent bristly tuft of scales on its head. The specific pattern of streaks and spots on the forewing helps differentiate it from similar species.
Description
A small, slender moth with a distinctive bristly tuft of scales on its head, featuring mottled brown and grey forewings with darker longitudinal streaks, providing excellent camouflage.
