SKULLCAP SKELETONIZER MOTH

SKULLCAP SKELETONIZER MOTH

Prochoreutis inflatella
METALMARK MOTH FAMILY (Choreutidae)

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This moth is very small with a wingspan of only 3/8 to 1/2 inch. The forewing is dark brown with metallic black shading and white dusting in the median area. The postmedian line is metallic green or purple. There is a white triangle at the costa near the apex. The hindwing is grayish brown and pointed at the outer angle. The caterpillar is small and green with white spots on the sides.

 

It probably is locally common where its food plant, Mad-dog Skullcap is found. Several were seen in Mormon Hollow in Fontenelle Forest in late October. Adults fly from June to October. They are day fliers, but have been reported to come to mercury vapor lamps.

 

The larvae are skeletonizers of Mad-dog Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) also known as Blue Skullcap. The first larva appears shortly after the host plants leaf out. Pupation occurs in a multi-layered cocoon of white silk.

 

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