Wasp Parasitizer Moth
Common NameWasp Parasitizer Moth
Scientific NameAcrolophus arcanellus
FamilyAcrolophidae
SubfamilyAcrolophinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Primary Colorsbrown, white, grey, orange
HabitatWoodlands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsgrasses, herbaceous plants (roots)
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are root feeders, often found in the soil, feeding on roots of grasses and other herbaceous plants. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic tent-like resting posture of the wings and the intricate mottled pattern of brown, white, and grey. The hairy head and prominent, upturned labial palps are also key features.
Description
This is a small moth with a distinctive mottled pattern of brown, orange, white, and grey on its forewings, which are held in a tent-like fashion at rest. It has a hairy head and prominent palps.
