Oblique-banded Indarbela
Common NameOblique-banded Indarbela
Scientific NameIndarbela obliquifasciata
FamilyCossidae
SubfamilyIndarbelinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, cream, brown, black
HabitatForests, orchards, plantations, gardens
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia
Host Plantsmango, guava, citrus, teak, eucalyptus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are internal wood-borers, tunneling under the bark of various trees and feeding on the cambium. Pupation occurs within these tunnels, and adults emerge to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cryptic pattern of white/cream forewings with numerous brown and black speckles and subtle oblique bands. Its robust body and typical Cossidae resting posture (wings tent-like) are also key.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with a robust body and a cryptic appearance. Its forewings are off-white to cream, densely mottled with irregular brown and black speckles and faint oblique darker bands, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
