Simple Salebriaria Moth
Common NameSimple Salebriaria Moth
Scientific NameSalebriaria simpliciella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, tan
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak (Quercus spp.), hickory (Carya spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on the leaves of host trees, pupating in a cocoon before emerging as nocturnal adults.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, overall mottled grey-brown coloration, and the slightly upturned labial palps typical of many Phycitinae moths. Distinguishing it from similar species often requires examination of subtle wing patterns or genitalia.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled grey-brown forewings, often featuring subtle darker markings and a somewhat lighter median area. Its head and thorax are also grey-brown, blending well with bark.
