Barberry Geometer Moth
Common NameBarberry Geometer Moth
Scientific NamePareulype berberata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsorange-brown, dark grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, scrubland, gardens, hedgerows, and other areas where its host plant, Barberry, is present.
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Russia, and East Asia (e.g., China, Japan).
Host PlantsBarberry (Berberis spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to June, and August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as 'looper' caterpillars, feed exclusively on the leaves of Barberry plants. They typically pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive broad, scalloped wings and the intricate pattern of orange-brown and dark grey/black bands. The prominent dark central band on the forewings and the overall cryptic coloration are key features.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, scalloped wings. Its forewings display a complex cryptic pattern of orange-brown, dark grey, and black bands and mottling, often with a prominent dark central band.
