Phenacodes aleuropa
Common NamePhenacodes aleuropa
Scientific NamePhenacodes aleuropa
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyScopariinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, grey, brown, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, and areas rich in mosses and lichens
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host Plantsmosses, lichens
Flight PeriodSeptember to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are believed to feed on mosses and lichens, developing through several instars before pupating.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the intricate mottled pattern of dark and light scales on the forewings, and its typical resting posture with wings held flat.
Description
This is a small moth with a highly cryptic wing pattern, featuring a mottled mix of white, grey, and dark brown scales that provide excellent camouflage.
