Twelve-lined Ofatulena
Common NameTwelve-lined Ofatulena
Scientific NameOfatulena lineatella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)11
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatMeadows, fields, roadsides, and open woodlands where goldenrod is abundant.
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America, primarily the United States and parts of Canada.
Host PlantsGoldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are stem borers, primarily feeding within the stems of various goldenrod (Solidago) species.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, and the distinctive, finely striped and streaked pattern on its forewings, often found resting on goldenrod plants.
Description
A small, slender moth with forewings cryptically patterned with intricate black, white, and grey longitudinal lines and streaks, giving it a bark-like or bird dropping appearance.
