Nevada-watch-list
Guides
Petrophila confusalis
confusing petrophila moth
Petrophila confusalis is a semi-aquatic moth in the family Crambidae, commonly known as the confusing petrophila moth. Adults are small, with forewing lengths of 5–11 mm, and are active from April to September. The species is notable for its specialized aquatic larval stage, during which caterpillars feed on algae and diatoms in fast-moving streams. The moth serves as a host for the parasitic aquatic wasp Tanychela pilosa and has been observed in large grazing zones that contribute to epilithic spatial patchiness. In 2021, it was listed on the Nevada Division of Natural Heritage watch list due to population decline.