Root Collar Borer Moth
Common NameRoot Collar Borer Moth
Scientific NameEuzophera semifuneralis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)21.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, grey, pale yellow
HabitatDeciduous forests, orchards, woodlands, areas with host trees and shrubs
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central United States, parts of Canada)
Host Plantsapple, peach, plum, cherry, oak, maple, elm, hawthorn, dogwood, pine
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the bark, particularly at the root collar or base of the trunk, of various deciduous trees and shrubs, feeding on the cambium. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for the reddish-brown forewings with a contrasting paler basal area and a prominent, wavy pale antemedial line. The overall size and typical resting posture are also characteristic.
Description
A small moth with reddish-brown forewings, often featuring a paler greyish-brown basal area and a distinct, wavy pale antemedial line. The hindwings are typically plain grey.
