Smeathmann's Aethes Moth
Common NameSmeathmann's Aethes Moth
Scientific NameAethes smeathmanniana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyCochylini
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscream, reddish-brown
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, waste ground, gardens, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsAchillea millefolium (Yarrow), Tanacetum vulgare (Tansy), Artemisia vulgaris (Mugwort)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the stems or roots of various Asteraceae plants, forming galls or feeding internally. Pupation occurs within the plant material or in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size and the characteristic reddish-brown banding on the pale forewings, particularly the two distinct oblique fasciae. Often found in areas with its host plants.
Description
A small moth with creamy-white forewings marked by two prominent, oblique reddish-brown bands and a reddish-brown spot near the apex. The hindwings are plain grey.
