Celiptera frustulum

The combination of medium size (34–41 mm wingspan), dark forewings with a distinct "bit" or dark marking, and pale hindwings with dark margins distinguishes this species from similar Celiptera species. The bivoltine spring flight period (May–June) in eastern North America helps separate it from related taxa with different phenology. Larval association with black locust provides additional identification context where host plants are known.

Medium-sized moth with a wingspan of 34–41 mm. Forewings are dark with a pattern of lighter markings; the common name "black bit" refers to a distinct dark marking. Hindwings are paler, typically grayish or whitish with darker margins. Body is robust and covered in fine scales.

Associated with deciduous woodlands and forest edges where black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) occurs. Found in both natural and disturbed habitats supporting this host plant.

Eastern North America, ranging from the northeastern United States north to Ontario, Canada. Records include Vermont and surrounding regions.

Adults active from May to June; two generations per year (bivoltine). Larval stage occurs between adult flight periods.

Larvae feed exclusively on Robinia pseudoacacia (black locust). Adult feeding habits are not documented.

• Robinia pseudoacacia - larval food plantblack locust

Bivoltine with two generations per year. Adults emerge in May and June. Larval development occurs on black locust, with pupation presumably in soil or leaf litter. Overwintering stage is not explicitly documented but likely as pupae or larvae.

Nocturnal; adults are attracted to light. Larvae feed on foliage of host plant.

Herbivore as larvae, consuming foliage of black locust. Serves as prey for insectivores including birds, bats, and predatory arthropods. Contributes to nutrient cycling through herbivory and detritus production.

Minor potential as a pest of black locust in forestry or ornamental plantings, though not documented as economically significant. Of interest to lepidopterists and naturalists.

• Other Celiptera speciesSimilar size and general appearance; distinguished by wing pattern details, flight period, and geographic range.
• Other Erebidae moths with dark forewings and pale hindwingsSuperficially similar color pattern; separated by specific wing markings, size, and host plant association.

• moth
• Erebidae
• herbivore
• specialist feeder
• North America
• bivoltine
• nocturnal

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life