Lesser Treble-bar
Common NameLesser Treble-bar
Scientific NameAplocera efformata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)31
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatDry grasslands, chalk downland, open woodlands, heathland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsHypericum perforatum, Hypericum spp.
Flight PeriodMay to June, and July to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on St. John's Wort. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter, with two generations typically occurring per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished from the similar Greater Treble-bar by its slightly smaller size, generally paler ground colour, and less sharply defined central 'treble-bar' pattern on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a cryptic pattern of wavy dark brown and grey bands on a lighter brown or cream background, providing excellent camouflage.
