Little Ermel
Common NameLittle Ermel
Scientific NameGelechiidae sp.
FamilyGelechiidae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, gardens, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeUndetermined; likely widespread in temperate regions
Host PlantsVarious herbaceous plants, shrubs, trees
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on plant tissues, pupation occurs in a cocoon or underground, and adults emerge to mate.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, and cryptic grey-brown mottled forewings. Distinguishing it from similar microlepidoptera often requires examination of genitalic structures.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its mottled grey and brown forewings, which are held tightly along its body at rest, giving it a cylindrical appearance. Its head is notably paler and somewhat shaggy.
