ELACHISTA MOTH
Elachista sp.
GRASS MINER MOTHS (Elachistidae)
The Elachista moth is approximately 1/8 inch long (3 mm). The forewing is black with wide white bands and a flared fringe. The hind wing is gray with feathery-like plumes. The legs are banded black and white. Genitalia dissection is needed for identification of many species in this group.
This moth was photographed in Fontenelle Forest on June 6, 2016 where it was very common on that day. This genus of moths is widespread in North America.
The larvae are miners feeding on grasses and sedges. There are 141 named species of Elachista in North America.
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