Salma pyrastis
Common NameSalma pyrastis
Scientific NameSalma pyrastis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey, yellow
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, suburban gardens
Geographic RangeAustralia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia)
Host PlantsPoa species, various grasses
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, spring to autumn in cooler areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike most moths, Salma pyrastis undergoes complete metamorphosis, with eggs laid on host plants, larvae feeding on grasses, pupating, and emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled, cryptic forewing pattern of browns, blacks, and greys, combined with the characteristic yellow-orange patch on the dorsal abdomen, which is often visible even at rest.
Description
This moth has forewings mottled with shades of dark brown, black, and pale grey or white, forming a cryptic pattern. A distinctive yellow-orange patch is visible on the dorsal abdomen between the wings.
