Agaristoides Moth
Common NameAgaristoides Moth
Scientific NamePhaegorista agaristoides
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsred, orange, black
HabitatWoodlands, savannas, and gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa (South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Eswatini)
Host PlantsFicus
Flight PeriodYear-round, peaking in warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae feed on Ficus species, pupate, and emerge as adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its vibrant red and orange forewings with a distinct black reticulated (net-like) pattern, and bright red, fuzzy head and thorax. Males have strongly bipectinate antennae.
Description
A striking moth with a bright red head, thorax, and forewings. The forewings feature a prominent black reticulated pattern, often enclosing patches of orange, contrasting sharply with the red background.
