Banana Stowaway
Common NameBanana Stowaway
Scientific NameSyntomeida melanthus
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsdark blue-green, black, pale yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, disturbed areas, gardens, agricultural lands
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, Caribbean, occasionally southern North America (e.g., Florida, Texas)
Host PlantsEchites umbellata, Mikania micrantha
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy and feed gregariously on host plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults are day-flying.
Identification TipsKey features include the iridescent blue-green head and thorax, dark wings with prominent pale longitudinal veins, and its characteristic diurnal, wasp-like flight. Often found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Description
A diurnal, wasp-mimicking moth with a slender, iridescent blue-green body and dark, somewhat translucent wings featuring distinct pale longitudinal veins.
