Six-toothed Aethes
Common NameSix-toothed Aethes
Scientific NameAethes dentifera
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyCochylini
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorscream, brown, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas)
Host PlantsEupatorium, Solidago
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the stems or flowerheads of various Asteraceae plants, such as boneset and goldenrod. Pupation occurs within a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive marbled pattern of reddish-brown on a cream background, and its association with Asteraceae host plants. Definitive identification often requires examination of genitalia.
Description
A small moth with cream to whitish forewings featuring broad, irregular, reddish-brown to dark brown bands and patches, creating a marbled or reticulated pattern. The hindwings are typically plain grey.
