Pecan Leaf Casebearer Moth
Common NamePecan Leaf Casebearer Moth
Scientific NameAcrobasis nuxvorella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, tan
HabitatPecan orchards, areas with Carya species
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States
Host PlantsCarya illinoinensis (Pecan), other Carya species (hickories)
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are casebearers, constructing a silken case covered with frass and leaf fragments, feeding on pecan buds and developing nuts. They overwinter as larvae.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, cryptic mottled brown and cream forewings, and its strong association with pecan trees, especially the characteristic larval cases.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled brown and cream forewings, featuring a darker band on the outer half and a lighter, variegated inner half.
