Spruce Micromoth
Common NameSpruce Micromoth
Scientific NameColeotechnites piceaella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)9
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, grey, black, brown
HabitatConiferous forests, spruce plantations
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host PlantsSpruce (Picea spp.)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are needle miners, feeding within the needles of spruce trees, causing defoliation. Pupation occurs inside the mined needles.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, slender body, and distinctive mottled grey, white, and black forewings, typically found in areas with spruce trees.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled forewings displaying a cryptic pattern of white, grey, black, and brown patches, providing excellent camouflage.
