Small Frosted Wave
Common NameSmall Frosted Wave
Scientific NameAsthena albulata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Primary Colorswhite, black, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, rowan, birch, willow
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various woody plants, often Rosaceae. They pupate in a cocoon, typically on the ground or in leaf litter. The species is usually univoltine or bivoltine depending on the region.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, pure white base color, and the characteristic wavy, dark grey or brown subterminal line that gives it a 'frosted' appearance, especially along the wing margins.
Description
A small, delicate moth with a frosted white ground color, finely speckled with black and brown, and a distinctive wavy dark subterminal line on all wings.
