Planthopper Parasite Moth
Common NamePlanthopper Parasite Moth
Scientific NameEpipyrops barberiana
FamilyEpipyropidae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark grey, brown
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open woodlands, agricultural fields (where planthoppers are abundant)
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsPlanthoppers (various species)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnique among Lepidoptera, the larvae are ectoparasites on planthoppers, feeding on their hemolymph. They pupate in a silken cocoon after detaching from the host.
Identification TipsSmall size, dark mottled wings, and distinctively feathery antennae (especially in males). The parasitic larval stage is a key biological feature.
Description
A small, dark greyish-brown moth with broad, rounded, cryptically patterned wings and prominent bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
