Potato Moth
Common NamePotato Moth
Scientific NamePhthorimaea operculella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12.5
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, tan
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, storage facilities where host plants are present
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (wherever potatoes and other solanaceous crops are grown)
Host Plantspotato, tomato, eggplant, tobacco, bell pepper
Flight PeriodYear-round in warm climates; multiple generations during growing season in temperate regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae bore into leaves, stems, or tubers, causing damage. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often in soil or on the host plant. Multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsSmall size (10-15mm wingspan), characteristic mottled brown/tan forewings with dark spots, and its strong association with potato and other solanaceous plants, especially as a pest.
Description
A small, slender moth with a mottled pattern of light brown and tan, featuring scattered dark brown to black spots on its forewings.
