Scybalistodes periculosalis
Scientific NameScybalistodes periculosalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, yellowish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with decaying plant matter
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas)
Host Plantsunknown (likely detritivorous or feeds on fungi/lichens/various plant matter)
Flight PeriodApril to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike most moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae are likely concealed feeders on detritus or various plant materials.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive mottled brown and tan forewing pattern with wavy lines, and the prominent, forward-projecting labial palps characteristic of snout moths.
Description
This small moth has mottled brown and tan forewings adorned with intricate, wavy transverse lines, creating a cryptic pattern. It possesses prominent labial palps, giving it a "snout-like" appearance.
