Muslin Moth (Diaphora mendica, (Clerck, 1759))

General Information

This species displays distinct sexual dimorphism, with the males light brown or grey and the females white. Both are sparsely speckled with black.

The male is nocturnal and the female diurnal.

Pupates in loose soil.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a pupa.
Both sexes readily come to light, sometimes in numbers.
Flies during the day

Forewing length: M 14-17mm. F 17-19mm.
Foodplant(s): docks (Rumex spp.), plantains (Plantago spp.), Red Dead-nettle (Lamium purpureum), herbaceous plants
Flying: One generation, May-early June
UK Presence: Resident
National status:

Habitat

Woodland, downland, riverbanks and hedgerows.

Regional Information

There are no records in the system yet in Bulgaria.

Similar Species

Buff Ermine Spilosoma lutea

Gotse Delchev, SW Bulgaria, 11th May 2015. Light trap.

White Ermine Spilosoma lubricipeda

Water Ermine Spilosoma urticae

10572 Muslin Moth Diaphora mendica, (Clerck, 1759)

BF2063 (ABH72.022)