No common name
Common NameNo common name
Scientific NameNippoptilia cinctipedalis
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown, cream
HabitatOpen woodlands, grasslands, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEast Asia (e.g., Japan, Korea, China)
Host PlantsUnknown, likely Asteraceae or Lamiaceae
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically internal feeders (stem borers, leaf miners, or flower/seed feeders) on their host plants. Pupation often occurs on the host plant.
Identification TipsThe distinctive T-shaped resting posture, deeply cleft 'plume' wings, and slender body are characteristic of the Pterophoridae family. Specific identification to species often requires examination of genitalia.
Description
A small, slender moth with deeply cleft, feathery wings that are held out to the sides in a T-shape at rest. Its coloration is mottled tan and brown, providing camouflage.
