Triangle-backed Pelochrista Moth
Common NameTriangle-backed Pelochrista Moth
Scientific NamePelochrista dorsisignatana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, grey
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host PlantsSolidago (goldenrod), Aster
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the roots and stems of host plants, primarily goldenrod and aster species. Pupation occurs within the plant material or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, mottled brown coloration, and the characteristic dark, somewhat triangular markings on the dorsal side of the forewings when the moth is at rest.
Description
A small, mottled brown moth with a distinctive pattern of dark, somewhat triangular or rectangular markings on its forewings, giving it a 'triangle-backed' appearance when at rest.
