Morosaphycita oculiferella
Common NameMorosaphycita oculiferella
Scientific NameMorosaphycita oculiferella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, gray, dark brown, pale tan
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsLiquidambar styraciflua, Myrica cerifera
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis, with larvae feeding on the leaves of host plants like sweetgum and wax myrtle before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled forewing pattern with reddish-brown and gray patches, and its relatively small size. Identification often requires examination of specific wing markings and genitalia for definitive species confirmation within its genus.
Description
A small moth characterized by forewings mottled with shades of reddish-brown, dark brown, and gray, often with a pale tan head and thorax.
