White-barred Gold
Common NameWhite-barred Gold
Scientific NameMicropterix calthella
FamilyMicropterigidae
SubfamilyMicropteriginae
Wingspan (mm)7.5
Primary Colorsmetallic gold, dark brown, pale blue
HabitatDamp meadows, marshy areas, woodlands, often near buttercups
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (e.g., Siberia, Japan)
Host Plantspollen (e.g., Ranunculus, Caltha) for adults, detritus/fungi for larvae
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are apodous (legless) and are thought to feed on detritus, fungi, or spores. Adults are diurnal and feed on pollen using chewing mouthparts, a primitive trait among moths.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, the striking metallic gold and dark mottled pattern on the forewings, the shaggy golden head, and its habit of being active during the day, often found on flowers like buttercups in damp environments.
Description
A tiny moth characterized by its shaggy golden head and iridescent forewings mottled with metallic gold and dark brown, often with subtle pale markings. The hindwings have a pale, bluish fringe.
