Nemophora raddaella
Common NameNemophora raddaella
Scientific NameNemophora raddaella
FamilyAdelidae
SubfamilyAdelinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Primary Colorsdark brown, bronze, white, iridescent green
HabitatMeadows, open woodlands, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe
Host Plantsdetritus (larvae), various flowering plants (adults, e.g., knapweed, thistle)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are case-bearers, feeding on fallen leaves and detritus on the ground, often near Rosaceae plants. Pupation occurs within the larval case.
Identification TipsLook for the exceptionally long, slender antennae (often 2-3 times body length, especially in males), the iridescent bronze-green sheen on the dark forewings, and the two distinct white spots on each forewing.
Description
A small moth characterized by extremely long, slender antennae, dark brown forewings with a metallic bronze-green sheen, and two prominent white spots on each forewing.
