Mecyna mustelinalis
Common NameMecyna mustelinalis
Scientific NameMecyna mustelinalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsbrown, light brown, reddish-brown
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, open rocky areas, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia (Palearctic region)
Host PlantsThymus, Origanum, Artemisia, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are polyphagous, feeding on various herbaceous plants, and pupation typically occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall mottled brown appearance, the faint transverse lines, and the small pale spots on the forewings. Genitalic examination is often required for definitive species identification within the genus.
Description
This is a small, slender moth with mottled light to reddish-brown forewings, displaying faint darker transverse lines and a few small, pale discal spots. Its hindwings are a uniform lighter brown.
