Senecio blue stem borer
Common NameSenecio blue stem borer
Scientific NamePhycitodes maritima
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, coastal areas, disturbed ground
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, North America (introduced)
Host PlantsSenecio jacobaea, other Senecio species
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the stems or feed on the seeds of Senecio species, particularly ragwort. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or within the plant.
Identification TipsSmall size, slender body, mottled grey-brown forewings with white dusting, and prominent upward-curving labial palps (snout). Often rests with wings folded tightly against the body.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled grey-brown forewings dusted with white scales, often appearing streaky, and prominent upward-curving labial palps.
