Straight-lined Wave
Common NameStraight-lined Wave
Scientific NamePhibalapteryx virgata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale grey, light brown
HabitatDry grasslands, coastal areas, heathland, chalk downland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsFestuca, Poa, Dactylis, Plantago, Galium
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slender, green or brown, feeding on various grasses and low-growing herbaceous plants. It typically overwinters as a pupa or larva.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale coloration and the characteristic faint, wavy transverse lines, particularly the relatively straight central fascia (band) compared to other wave moths. The antennae are simple.
Description
A small, slender-bodied moth with pale greyish-brown wings marked by several faint, wavy, darker transverse lines, often with a more prominent central line.
