Abdominalis Tiger Moth
Common NameAbdominalis Tiger Moth
Scientific NameHypercompe abdominalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorswhite, black, yellow, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Bolivia)
Host PlantsRicinus communis, Helianthus, Brassica, Phaseolus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are polyphagous and often hairy, pupating in a cocoon that may incorporate larval hairs.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive white forewings with bold black ring-like patterns and spots, and the brightly colored (yellow or orange with black markings) abdomen.
Description
A medium-sized moth with white forewings intricately patterned with prominent black rings and spots. The body is stout, and the abdomen is typically yellow or orange with black spots.
