Description

• Blastobasis is a large genus of very small moths in the family Blastobasidae. Adults typically have narrow, elongated forewings in shades of grey, brown, tan, or ochre, often with fine streaks and mottling that provide excellent camouflage. Most species have wingspans of roughly 10–20 mm and are inconspicuous when resting.

Range

• The genus is widely distributed, with many species occurring in North and Central America, including Mexico. Blastobasis species occur in the tropical Pacific lowlands of Mexico, including Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.

Habitat

• These moths occupy a wide variety of habitats, including tropical and seasonally dry forest, woodland, scrub, grassland, agricultural areas, and disturbed vegetation. Adults are generally nocturnal and may be attracted to lights, while larvae develop in plant material, leaf litter, seeds, fruits, or other organic substrates depending on the species.

Diet

• Larval diets are diverse within the genus. Caterpillars may feed on seeds, fruits, flowers, leaves, dried plant material, or decomposing organic matter, with some species associated with stored or dead plant products. Adults generally take little solid food but may consume nectar or other liquid plant resources.