Lined Melanocinclis Moth
Common NameLined Melanocinclis Moth
Scientific NameMelanocinclis lineigera
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)8
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, black, brown
HabitatVarious habitats where host plants are present, including woodlands, fields, and gardens.
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host PlantsUnknown, larvae are leaf miners
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae of this moth are known to be leaf miners, feeding within the tissues of plant leaves. The full lifecycle details are not extensively documented.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its minute size, the slender body, and the striking pattern of bold black and white longitudinal stripes on the forewings, particularly a strong dark stripe along the costa.
Description
A very small, slender moth characterized by its narrow wings and distinctive pattern of prominent dark brown to black longitudinal stripes on a white or pale cream background.
