Thema psammoxantha
Scientific NameThema psammoxantha
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorssandy brown, dark brown, pale yellow
HabitatGrasslands, savannas, open areas with grasses
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa
Host Plantsgrasses
Flight PeriodSummer months (e.g., December to March in Southern Hemisphere)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are likely grass feeders, pupating in the soil or within plant debris.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific pattern of sandy-brown forewings with dark longitudinal streaks, the very prominent and hairy upturned labial palps, and its small size.
Description
A small moth with sandy-brown forewings marked by distinct dark brown longitudinal stripes and a darker patch near the apex. It features a notably hairy head with prominent, upturned labial palps.
