Geometridae

70.139 Barred Carpet Martania taeniata (Stephens, 1831)

Notable A

Similar species: The rounded wings and rounded projections to the outer side of the forewing cross-band mean that unless very worn this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for other British or Irish species.

Forewing: 11 to 12mm

Habitats: Damp open woodland and other damp sheltered places.

Habits: The moth occasionally flies in the late afternoon. It flies from just after dusk and visits the flowers of grasses and rushes. It comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva possibly feeds on the flowers and seeds of mosses (on which it has been reared). In captivity it accepts Nasturtium, the flowers of Herb Robert, Dandelion, Wild Strawberry, Knotgrass, Common Chickweed and especially Ivy-leaved Toadflax. It has been reared on Self-heal.