No widely accepted common name
Common NameNo widely accepted common name
Scientific NameDioryctria mendacella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown, black
HabitatConiferous forests, pine plantations
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, Caucasus, Transcaucasia, Central Asia
Host PlantsPinus spp., Abies spp., Picea spp., Cedrus spp.
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are borers, feeding within the cones, shoots, or bark of various coniferous trees, particularly pines. Pupation occurs inside the larval feeding tunnel.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic grey and white forewing pattern with prominent dark wavy lines and a dark streak along the leading edge. Its association with coniferous trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring irregular dark brown wavy transverse lines and a distinct dark streak along the costa, providing excellent camouflage against bark.
