Penthophera morio
Common NamePenthophera morio
Scientific NamePenthophera morio
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorspale grey, black
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, meadows, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host PlantsFestuca, Bromus, Poa, Dactylis, Plantago, Trifolium
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and dark, feeding on various grasses and herbaceous plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in spring. Females are flightless or have greatly reduced wings.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their translucent wings with strong dark venation, black hairy body, and large, feathery antennae. Females are flightless with vestigial wings and a very hairy body.
Description
This moth has translucent, pale greyish-white wings with prominent dark veins and a dark fringe. Its body is robust and covered in dense black hair, and the male possesses large, feathery bipectinate antennae.
