Cerberus Wasp Moth
Common NameCerberus Wasp Moth
Scientific NameTrichura cerberus
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorstransparent, yellow, black, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica)
Host PlantsPoorly documented, likely various broadleaf plants
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates (diurnal)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae are typically hairy and feed on host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsKey features include its transparent, yellowish wings with dark outlines, a black and yellow/orange banded body, and a long, brush-tipped abdomen. Its diurnal, wasp-like flight and appearance are crucial for identification.
Description
This diurnal moth features transparent, yellowish wings with prominent black veins and dark margins. Its slender, black body is adorned with bright yellow or orange bands and a distinctive long, brush-tipped tail, effectively mimicking a wasp.
