Hypocoena basistriga facts for kids

Hypocoena basistriga is a type of moth that was first officially described by James Halliday McDunnough in 1933. You can find this moth across a large part of North America, from Newfoundland and Labrador in the east all the way west to British Columbia and Yukon. These moths like to live in damp, grassy places such as the edges of forests, hayfields, and meadows.

What Does the Hypocoena basistriga Moth Look Like?

This is a small moth, with a wingspan of about 2.5 to 2.7 centimeters (about an inch). Its body is usually dark red-brown or yellowish-brown.

Special Markings

You might notice a black streak near the base of its front wings. This streak can be short or extend halfway across the wing. The most noticeable features are the bright white lines on its wings. These white lines are actually the moth's veins, especially the cubital and median veins. The edges of the front wings are often pale yellow or buff. Its hindwings are dark brown or black. Both male and female moths look similar.

How to Identify This Moth

It's usually easy to spot this moth because of its small size, sturdy body, reddish-brown color, and those clear white veins on its wings.

Where Do These Moths Live?

Hypocoena basistriga moths live in the western boreal zone. This area stretches from Alaska to Alberta and includes the western Great Lakes region. They are not found further east. There are also some records of them living in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California.

Preferred Habitats

These moths are thought to live in bogs and other wet areas, especially in northern British Columbia. They are active at night and are often attracted to lights.

Life Cycle of the Hypocoena basistriga Moth

Larvae (Caterpillars)

Scientists don't know much about the caterpillars of this moth species yet. However, it's believed that they bore into the stems of sedges. Sedges are perennial plants that look like grasses and grow in wet soil or shallow water.

Adult Moths

Adult Hypocoena basistriga moths are usually seen in late summer and early fall. In most places, they are active during August and September. In British Columbia, they have been found in September and early October. These moths are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night, and they are often drawn to lights. There is only one generation of these moths each year.