Tachystola stenoptera
Common NameTachystola stenoptera
Scientific NameTachystola stenoptera
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorscream, reddish-brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, gardens, often associated with decaying plant matter
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (e.g., New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, fungi, lichens
Flight PeriodSpring to autumn (e.g., September to May in Australia)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae are typically concealed feeders, often on decaying plant material.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, pale forewings with a distinct reddish-brown outer margin, and relatively long, slender antennae.
Description
A small moth with pale cream to yellowish-white forewings, distinctly marked with a reddish-brown or ochre band on the outer third. The hindwings are paler and the body is slender.
