Agriphila tristella
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Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Crambidae
Genus: Agriphila
Species: A. tristella
Common name: Common Grass-veneer
Flight Season: June - September
Agriphila tristella is a common species of grass moth in the family Crambidae, widespread across Europe and parts of Asia. It's very similar in habit and appearance to Chrysoteuchia culmella, and both are often seen fluttering low through grass on summer evenings.
Its forewings are a warm brownish-yellow with a distinctive pattern: a dark brown median streak that widens toward the termen (outer edge), often edged with a white stripe, and a row of black terminal dots. Compared to Chrysoteuchia culmella, the streak in A. tristella is typically thinner and less defined. The wings are held tightly rolled when at rest, giving a sleek, cylindrical profile.
The species is single-brooded and thrives in dry, grassy habitats, including chalky or sandy soils, but can be found in various grassland settings. It is common and widespread, with no major conservation concerns.
