Argentine Bagworm
Common NameArgentine Bagworm
Scientific NameOiketicus platensis
FamilyPsychidae
SubfamilyOiketicinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown
HabitatForests, orchards, urban areas, and other environments with suitable host plants
Geographic RangeSouth America (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil)
Host PlantsEucalyptus, Citrus, Salix, Populus, Acacia, various other trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodSpring to summer (in its native range)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae construct and live within a silken case covered with plant material. Females are wingless and remain inside their larval case, attracting winged males with pheromones.
Identification TipsMales are characterized by their robust, furry bodies and broad, brown wings with specific markings. The presence of characteristic larval cases on host plants is a key indicator of bagworm species.
Description
A robust, hairy brown moth with broad, somewhat translucent wings. The forewings feature darker patches and a subtle, irregular white marking.
