Richards' Fungus Moth
Common NameRichards' Fungus Moth
Scientific NameScardia richardsi
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyScardiinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, cream
HabitatForests, woodlands, areas with decaying wood
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America (USA and Canada)
Host Plantsbracket fungi, polypores
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are fungivorous, feeding internally on bracket fungi (polypores) found on decaying wood. Pupation occurs within a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and black forewing pattern with irregular bands and wavy lines, its small size, and its association with forested areas where bracket fungi are present. The raised scales on the forewings can also be a characteristic.
Description
This small moth has forewings mottled with shades of brown, black, and cream, featuring irregular dark bands and wavy lighter lines that create a cryptic pattern. Its body is stout, and the antennae are relatively long and slender.
