No widely accepted common name
Common NameNo widely accepted common name
Scientific NameSelidosema taeniolaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, reddish-brown
HabitatDry heathlands, open woodlands, sandy areas, scrubland
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, extending eastwards
Host PlantsCalluna vulgaris, Erica, Cytisus, Genista, Thymus, Lotus, Trifolium
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' (loopers) that feed on various low-growing plants and shrubs. They typically overwinter as larvae, pupating in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the scalloped wing margins, the mottled brown and reddish-brown cryptic pattern, and often a distinct dark discal spot on the forewings, which help distinguish it from similar geometrid species.
Description
A medium-sized geometrid moth with broad, scalloped wings. Its forewings are mottled in shades of brown, reddish-brown, and dark brown, providing excellent camouflage.
