No common name
Common NameNo common name
Scientific NameBlastobasis tarda
FamilyBlastobasidae
SubfamilyBlastobasinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, orchards, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North America (adventive)
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, fungi, seeds, fruits
Flight PeriodJune to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous detritivores or scavengers, feeding on decaying organic matter, fungi, seeds, or plant galls. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, mottled brown forewings with a distinct dark spot in the discal cell, and its typical roof-like resting posture.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled light brown to grayish-brown forewings, often marked with darker spots or streaks, and a characteristic resting posture with wings held roof-like.
