Similar Pelochrista
Common NameSimilar Pelochrista
Scientific NamePelochrista sp.
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatDry grasslands, meadows, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangePalearctic, Nearctic
Host PlantsAsteraceae (thistles, knapweeds), various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically stem, root, or flowerhead borers of herbaceous plants, often within the Asteraceae family. Pupation occurs within the plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, overall cryptic brown coloration, and the characteristic dark saddle-like mark on the forewing. Definitive species identification often requires examination of genitalia due to the similarity among species in the genus.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and reddish-brown forewings, featuring a distinct darker, somewhat heart-shaped or saddle-like mark in the central area.
