Plain Plume Moth
Common NamePlain Plume Moth
Scientific NameGillmeria pallidactyla
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)29
Primary Colorswhite, cream, pale grey
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, gardens, waste ground, woodland edges
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsyarrow, tansy, mugwort
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally within the stems or flowerheads of various Asteraceae plants. Pupation occurs on the host plant, and the species can have one or two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its plain, pale coloration, the deeply cleft 'plumed' wings, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held out at right angles to the body.
Description
A small, slender moth with distinctive pale, deeply cleft wings that resemble feathers or plumes. It typically rests with its wings held out horizontally, forming a T-shape.
