Minute Oval Abrostola
Common NameMinute Oval Abrostola
Scientific NameAbrostola ovalis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsUrtica dioica (stinging nettle), Humulus lupulus (hop)
Flight PeriodMay to September (two generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with yellow stripes, feeding on nettles and hops. Pupation occurs in a cocoon on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewings with a complex pattern of dark spots (reniform and orbicular marks) and wavy transverse lines, along with the characteristic raised scale tuft on the thorax.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring distinct dark oval spots and wavy lines, and a prominent raised tuft on the thorax.
