Metallostichodes nigrocyanella
Common NameMetallostichodes nigrocyanella
Scientific NameMetallostichodes nigrocyanella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)13.5
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with lichen-covered trees
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens and algae growing on tree bark. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, mottled brown and reddish forewing coloration, and the characteristic dark marking near the tornus. Its association with lichen-covered trees is also a clue.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled brownish forewings, featuring reddish-brown speckles and a distinct dark patch near the tornus, providing cryptic camouflage.
