Thelma's Agonopterix Moth
Common NameThelma's Agonopterix Moth
Scientific NameAgonopterix thelmae
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyDepressariinae
Wingspan (mm)18.5
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas with herbaceous host plants.
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and Canada).
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, Asteraceae
Flight PeriodOctober to November, and March to April (overwintering adults)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically leaf-rollers or borers on herbaceous host plants. Adults emerge in the fall, overwinter, and become active again in early spring for mating and oviposition.
Identification TipsKey features include the reddish-brown ground color, the pattern of black speckles, and two prominent discal spots on the forewings. Definitive identification often requires examination of genitalia due to similarity with other *Agonopterix* species.
Description
A small moth with mottled reddish-brown to tan forewings, featuring scattered black scales and a few distinct darker spots, providing excellent camouflage against bark or dead leaves.
