Black Slug Cup Moth
Common NameBlack Slug Cup Moth
Scientific NameParasa chloris
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgreen, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, cherry, apple, birch, willow, dogwood, hickory, elm
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe caterpillar, as shown, is dark brown to black with yellow or white spots and numerous stinging spines. It moves like a slug and pupates in a hard, cup-shaped cocoon.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their bright green forewings with a prominent reddish-brown costal patch. The caterpillar is easily recognized by its dark, spiny, slug-like appearance with yellow or white spots.
Description
The adult Black Slug Cup Moth is a small, stout-bodied moth with bright green forewings marked by a distinctive reddish-brown patch along the costa. Its hindwings are pale.
