Chionodes thoraceochrella
Scientific NameChionodes thoraceochrella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)13.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, light brown, grayish-brown, white
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, and areas where host plants like goldenrod and aster are abundant.
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America (USA and Canada)
Host PlantsSolidago (goldenrod), Aster
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically leaf miners or webbers on their host plants, pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, characteristic mottled brown forewing pattern with pale speckles, and the upturned labial palps typical of the Gelechiidae family.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled dark and light brown forewings, often featuring scattered pale scales, providing excellent camouflage against bark or detritus.
