Reed Dagger
Common NameReed Dagger
Scientific NamePhotedes fluxa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale yellow, grey
HabitatWetlands, fens, marshes, reedbeds
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsCommon Reed (Phragmites australis)
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally within the stems of Common Reed (Phragmites australis). Pupation occurs within the stem.
Identification TipsKey features include its pale, streaky forewings and slender build, along with its specific association with reedbed habitats. It can be distinguished from similar *Photedes* species by the subtle wing markings.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale yellowish-grey forewings, often marked with faint darker streaks along the veins. Its cryptic coloration allows it to blend well with its reedbed habitat.
