Mottled Twirler
Common NameMottled Twirler
Scientific NameGelechia rhombella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, cream
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands, areas with apple and other Rosaceae trees
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host PlantsMalus domestica (apple), Pyrus (pear), Prunus (cherry, plum)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-miners or feed within spun leaves of Rosaceae trees, particularly apple, before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive mottled brown and cream forewing pattern, and its association with apple trees. The head and palps can also be characteristic.
Description
A small, slender moth with forewings cryptically patterned in shades of light brown, cream, and dark brown speckles, giving it a mottled appearance that aids in camouflage.
