Sesame Leafroller Moth
Common NameSesame Leafroller Moth
Scientific NameAntigastra morysalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale grey, ochreous-brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, open areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, parts of Europe (tropical and subtropical regions)
Host PlantsSesamum indicum, Pedaliaceae family plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates; warm seasons in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf rollers, feeding on sesame leaves and sometimes boring into pods. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon within folded leaves or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale ground color of the wings with the characteristic wavy, ochreous-brown transverse lines. Its presence on or near sesame plants is a strong indicator.
Description
A small, slender moth with pale greyish-white wings adorned with distinctive wavy, ochreous-brown transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings.
