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Udea numeralis is a species of small moth belonging to the family Crambidae (grass moths) and the subfamily Spilomelinae. It was first documented and described by the German entomologist Jacob Hübner in 1796.
Key Characteristics & Biology
• Appearance: The wingspan measures roughly 25–26 mm. Its forewings typically display variable base colorations ranging from straw-yellow and pale orange to copper-brown. The wings are patterned with distinctive darker spots, notably an orbicular stigma (circular mark) in the cell area and secondary gray or dark spots near the outer margin. Its legs are predominantly white.
• Distribution: This species is primarily native to Southern Europe (including Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Greece, and Crete) and North Africa (such as Morocco and Algeria).
• Habitat: It is frequently found in sunny, low-scrub environments, olive groves, riverbanks, and coastal regions.
• Host Plants: The larvae feed on various herbaceous plants within the Asteraceae (Compositae) family, including genera like Urospermum and Pterotheca.
• Flight Period: Depending on the local climate, adults can be found on the wing almost year-round in warmer Mediterranean zones, commonly peaking from spring through autumn.
