Stagmatophora argyrostrepta
Scientific NameStagmatophora argyrostrepta
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)7
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, metallic blue, metallic green, metallic copper
HabitatAreas with host plants, often open or disturbed habitats
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, South Carolina)
Host PlantsUnknown, likely specific herbaceous plants or grasses
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in warmer parts of its range
Flight Styledarting
Lifecycle NotesHolometabolous. Larvae are typically leaf miners or stem borers, pupating within the host plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, slender body, and the distinctive iridescent metallic banding on the dark forewings. The tufted hind tibia is also characteristic of the genus.
Description
A very small, slender moth with dark, iridescent forewings featuring metallic blue, green, and coppery transverse bands. It has long antennae and a somewhat tufted hind leg.
