Rice Case Bearer
Common NameRice Case Bearer
Scientific NameParapoynx stagnalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyAcentropinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorswhite, brown
HabitatRice paddies, freshwater aquatic environments, wetlands
Geographic RangeWidespread in tropical and subtropical Asia, Africa, Australia, and parts of Europe
Host Plantsrice, aquatic grasses, sedges
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple generations
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are aquatic, constructing a portable case from leaf fragments of their host plants, which they carry as they feed underwater. Pupation occurs within the case.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, pale coloration with brown wavy markings, and its association with rice fields and other aquatic vegetation. The larvae's characteristic leaf cases are also a key identifier.
Description
A small, pale grey to white moth with distinctive brown or tan wavy bands and spots across its forewings and hindwings. Its body is slender and pale.
