SPOTTED PEPPERGRASS MOTH
Eustixia pupula
CRAMBID SNOUT MOTH FAMILY (Crambidae)
This small moth is about 3/8 inch long (9 mm) and has a wingspan of about 3/4 inch (17 mm). The forewing is white with several large square spots. Small black spots form a partial broken subterminal line and a terminal line. The hindwing is white with a few small black spots on the outer margin.
The frequency of occurrence in this area is not known. One individual has been photographed at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in early June 2014. The adults are most common from June to August. The adults are attracted to artificial lights. They frequent fields and waste places.
The larvae eat the leaves of Peppergrass (Lepidium sp.) and Cabbage. Pupula is the only species in the genus Eustixia in North America.
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