Tessellated Wave
Common NameTessellated Wave
Scientific NameScopula tessellaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatDamp grasslands, meadows, fens, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, knotgrass, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are slender, twig-like caterpillars that feed on low-growing herbaceous plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the unique tessellated pattern of white spots on dark wings, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held flat.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to black wings covered in a distinctive tessellated pattern of numerous small white spots. It typically rests with its wings spread flat.
