Least Black Arches
Common NameLeast Black Arches
Scientific NameArchanara sparganii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAmphipyrinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown
HabitatWetlands, fens, marshes, reedbeds, ditches
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsTypha, Sparganium, Phragmites
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesSingle brood. Larvae bore internally into stems of wetland host plants like bulrush and bur-reed. Pupation occurs within the stem. Overwinters as an egg.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cryptic pattern of dark grey-brown markings on a light grey background. The broad, triangular forewings and the way they are held flat are characteristic visual features.
Description
This moth has broad, triangular forewings held flat against its body, displaying a highly cryptic pattern. Its wings are mottled with intricate dark grey-brown lines and patches on a pale grey or whitish background.
