Small Dotted Buff
Common NameSmall Dotted Buff
Scientific NamePhotedes minima
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbuff, brown
HabitatDamp grasslands, fens, marshes, wet meadows
Geographic RangeEurope (widespread, including UK)
Host PlantsMolinia caerulea, Phragmites australis, various grasses
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally within the stems of various grasses, particularly purple moor-grass and common reed. Pupation occurs in a cocoon at the base of the food plant, and the species is univoltine.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its small size, the overall buff-brown coloration, and the diagnostic row of small black dots along the subterminal line of the forewings. Faint, darker transverse lines are also usually visible.
Description
A small, buff-brown moth with a relatively plain appearance, characterized by faint darker cross-lines and a distinctive row of small black dots near the outer margin of the forewings.
