Wolfberry Loxostege Moth
Common NameWolfberry Loxostege Moth
Scientific NameLoxostege albicostalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown, cream, grey
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, grasslands, open areas, deserts
Geographic RangeWestern and Southwestern North America (USA, Mexico)
Host PlantsWolfberry (Lycium spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are caterpillars that feed on wolfberry plants before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and cream forewing pattern with wavy lines, the pointed labial palpi, and its association with wolfberry plants in arid regions.
Description
This small, slender moth has mottled forewings in shades of tan, brown, and cream, marked with wavy, darker transverse lines, giving it a cryptic appearance. It possesses prominent dark eyes and a pointed snout-like labial palpi.
