White-shouldered Smudge
Common NameWhite-shouldered Smudge
Scientific NameBlastobasis adustella
FamilyBlastobasidae
SubfamilyBlastobasinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, disturbed areas, often near human habitation
Geographic RangeEurope (native), introduced to North America (e.g., California, Florida) and New Zealand
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, fungi, seeds, dried fruits, stored products
Flight PeriodMay to September (in temperate regions), year-round in warmer climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous detritivores, feeding on a wide range of decaying organic matter, fungi, and stored products. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled brown and dark grey forewings, and especially the distinct white streak or 'smudge' on the costa near the base of the wing.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled brown forewings that feature a prominent white streak along the costa near the base, giving it a 'white-shouldered' appearance.
