The Odontiinae is a subfamily of the Grass Moths (Crambidae). It’s a small group of about 400 species that can vary significantly in appearance. This is evident in their heterogeneous spot pattern and wingspans, which range from 9 to 50 mm. DNA research has shown that this group belongs to the grass moths.
Genus: Metaxmeste
Black Mountain Pearl – 2025 (FR)
(NCBI-index: 1.660659)
No official Dutch name is available for this grass moth. The Black Mountain Pearl (Metaxmeste phrygialis) is primarily found at high altitudes in the Alps. The yellow-brown forewing, in addition to numerous small black scales, features two greyish-white scalloped transverse bands edged on either side with a thin black line. The inner transverse band extends from one-third of the inner edge in an arc toward the leading edge, reaching close to the base. The outer transverse band extends from two-thirds of the inner edge in an arc toward the wingtip. Between the two transverse bands, near the leading edge, are two greyish-white spots connected by a black streak. The hindwing is blackish-grey and has only the outer greyish-white transverse band, similar to the one on the forewing. The fringes are strikingly white. The flight period is one generation from late May to August, and the wingspan is approximately 18-20 mm. Host plant: various grass species. Dutch name: –. Frisian name: –
Flying period:
