Several indviduals observed on burnt land in a pine-forest in medio August in Northern part of Norway. Length about 15 mm. Apomyelois bistriatella is attracted to similar ecologial conditions, but this one seems to be some different. Anyone who can identify it?
Regards,
Jostein
For sure I can only say, this is also a specimen of Pyralidae, Phycitinae, but I think, you will know this.
With all uncertainities of a diagnosis by pictures:
It may be Matilella fusca (Haworth 1811).
Another solution is Ortholepis betulae (Goeze 1778), but this species has erected scales behind the antemedian line (I cannot see this on your pictures). Besides this, O. betulae does not fly now in August (in Central Europe :)).
Take this as suggestion for further research, not as a determination.
Good Luck!
Rudolf Ritt
Thanks for a good suggestion! Matiella fusca is much likely, both of an ecologial point of view and its appearance. I just read that adults have a habit of resting amongst areas of burnt heath, where their coloration makes for excellent camouflage, although they are easily disturbed.The larvae feed in a web on heather (Erica) and possibly bilberry (Vaccinium), which suits perfect with the location where they were observed.
Best regards,
Jostein
I will also go for Matiella fusca, but it will be good if the specimen will be sent to natural museum of England or any other laboratory for confirmation. One thing identifying organisms simply by looking at picture which is not even very clear is difficult. However, something is better than nothing which we all agree is we know the order (Lepidoptera) and the family (Pyralidae).
Yes, I am of course fully agree, but the moth was not collected, only pictured.
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