Light Arches
Common NameLight Arches
Scientific NameApamea lithoxylaea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)42
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspale brown, beige, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, grasslands
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia Minor
Host Plantsvarious grasses, cereals
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the roots and stems of various grasses from autumn to spring, overwintering as larvae, and pupating underground in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the pale, straw-yellow forewings, the prominent pale streak along the costa, and a dark, short basal streak. The overall pattern is subtle and blends well with dry grass or wood.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pale, straw-colored forewings featuring subtle darker brown streaks and markings, including a distinctive pale streak along the costa and a dark basal streak.
