Morning-glory Plume Moth
Common NameMorning-glory Plume Moth
Scientific NameEmmelina monodactyla
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, grayish-brown
HabitatGardens, fields, disturbed areas, open woodlands, meadows, and other habitats where host plants grow.
Geographic RangeHolarctic (North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa)
Host Plantsbindweed, morning glory
Flight PeriodMarch to November
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally on the stems and leaves of bindweeds and morning glories, then pupate on the host plant or in the soil. Adults are known to overwinter.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its distinctive T-shaped resting posture with wings held horizontally and deeply divided into feather-like lobes, along with its overall drab brown or grayish-brown coloration.
Description
This slender, light brown moth is characterized by its unique T-shaped resting posture, with deeply cleft, feather-like wings held outstretched horizontally. Its drab coloration provides excellent camouflage.
