Lichen Beauty
Common NameLichen Beauty
Scientific NameAtypha pulmonaris
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyBryophilinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with old trees and abundant lichens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending into parts of Asia
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Parmelia, Usnea species)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens growing on trees and rocks, overwintering as larvae. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its highly cryptic, lichen-like forewing pattern of mottled grey, brown, and white, often with prominent dark kidney-shaped and circular spots (stigmata). The overall appearance blends seamlessly with lichen-covered surfaces.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with forewings cryptically patterned in mottled shades of grey, brown, and white, effectively mimicking lichen or tree bark. It features distinct dark reniform and orbicular stigmata and wavy crosslines.
