Palm Bud Moth
Common NamePalm Bud Moth
Scientific NameBatrachedra amydraula
FamilyBatrachedridae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, reddish-brown
HabitatDate palm groves, arid agricultural areas
Geographic RangeMiddle East, North Africa, parts of Asia (e.g., Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt)
Host PlantsPhoenix dactylifera (Date Palm)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year, active during warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are internal feeders, boring into the buds, flowers, and developing fruits of date palms, causing significant damage to crops.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, extremely slender body, and mottled cryptic coloration. It is typically found in association with date palm trees.
Description
A very small, slender moth with mottled brown, reddish-brown, and whitish-grey forewings, giving it a speckled, cryptic appearance. Its body is elongated and narrow.
