Reticulated Decantha Moth
Common NameReticulated Decantha Moth
Scientific NameDecantha reticulata
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsyellow, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas with decaying wood
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern US and Canada)
Host Plantsdecaying oak wood, decaying hickory wood, fungi on dead wood
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying wood or fungi, typically found within dead branches of host trees like oak and hickory.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive yellow and black banded pattern, and the prominent yellow tuft at the tip of the abdomen.
Description
A small moth with a striking pattern of bright yellow and black bands across its wings and body, often featuring a prominent tuft of yellow scales at the end of its abdomen.
