Synaphe moldavica
Common NameSynaphe moldavica
Scientific NameSynaphe moldavica
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyGalleriinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white, dark brown
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, open woodlands, and warm, sparse habitats
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending into parts of Eastern Europe and Asia (e.g., Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia)
Host Plantsmosses, lichens
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are believed to feed on mosses and lichens, or possibly detritus, before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive wavy pattern of light and dark brown with white markings on the forewings, and the prominent pectinate (comb-like) antennae, especially visible in males.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with forewings featuring a complex pattern of light brown, dark brown, and prominent white wavy bands, giving it a mottled appearance. The body is hairy and light brown.
