Steniodes declivalis
Scientific NameSteniodes declivalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Caribbean, Central America
Host PlantsSolanum americanum, Physalis angulata
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in tropical parts of its range; spring to fall in temperate areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult. Larvae are internal feeders, often boring into stems or fruits of host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled grey-brown forewing coloration with distinct wavy transverse lines, and the prominent subterminal line. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend into its environment.
Description
A small moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring intricate wavy white and dark lines, and a pale fringe. The hindwings are typically paler.
