Pink-masked Pyralid Moth
Common NamePink-masked Pyralid Moth
Scientific NameOstrinia penitalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Primary Colorspinkish-brown, dark brown
HabitatWetlands, ponds, slow-moving streams, and areas with aquatic host plants
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantssmartweed (Persicaria spp.), water-lily (Nymphaea spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are stem borers, feeding internally on the stems of aquatic host plants like smartweed and water-lily.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic pinkish-brown ground color with distinct dark, wavy transverse lines and spots on the forewings. Often found near aquatic environments where its host plants grow.
Description
A small moth with pinkish-brown forewings mottled with darker brown or blackish wavy bands and spots, giving it a somewhat 'masked' appearance.
