Toll's Grass-moth
Common NameToll's Grass-moth
Scientific NameAgriphila tolli
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Primary Colorsbeige, light brown, dark brown
HabitatDry grasslands, steppe habitats, dry slopes, fallow land
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending to parts of Asia
Host PlantsFestuca, Poa
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae overwinter and feed on the roots and lower parts of various grass species (Poaceae). Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon within the soil.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the specific pattern of dark streaks on the forewings, particularly the prominent costal streak, and the overall yellowish-brown coloration. Careful examination is often needed to differentiate it from other similar Agriphila species.
Description
A small, slender moth with yellowish-brown to light brown forewings featuring a prominent dark brown longitudinal streak along the costa and fine dark lines or speckles. Its hindwings are greyish, and it has distinctive upturned palps.
