Tebenna onustana
Common NameTebenna onustana
Scientific NameTebenna onustana
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, and disturbed areas where host plants grow
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsAnaphalis margaritacea (Pearly Everlasting)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf skeletonizers, feeding on the upper surface of Pearly Everlasting leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and there are multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, distinctive mottled brown, white, and black forewing pattern, and its strong association with its primary host plant, Pearly Everlasting.
Description
A small moth with mottled dark brown and black forewings, featuring irregular white or pale brown bands and spots that provide excellent camouflage against its host plants.
