Ozark Petrophila
Common NameOzark Petrophila
Scientific NamePetrophila ozarkensis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyAcentropinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatClear, flowing streams and rivers with rocky substrates
Geographic RangeOzark Mountains (Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma)
Host Plantsalgae, diatoms
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are aquatic, living in silken retreats on submerged rocks in streams and feeding on algae and diatoms. Pupation occurs underwater, and adults are short-lived.
Identification TipsLook for the specific mottled brown and white wing pattern with iridescent spots, especially near clean, rocky streams in the Ozark region.
Description
A small moth with mottled brown and white forewings, featuring wavy bands and a distinctive subterminal row of blackish, iridescent spots. The body is light brown.
