Chiasmia defixaria
Common NameChiasmia defixaria
Scientific NameChiasmia defixaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorswhite, cream, brown, tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, grasslands, savannas, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeAfrotropical region (e.g., South Africa, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania)
Host PlantsUnknown, likely herbaceous plants or shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer parts of its range, with peaks depending on local conditions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Larvae are typical 'loopers' or 'inchworms' characteristic of the Geometridae family.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale ground color and the complex pattern of wavy, brownish lines and speckling across all wings, giving it a camouflaged look.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale, whitish-cream wings heavily marked with intricate, wavy, brownish-ochre transverse lines and speckling, creating a mottled and cryptic appearance.
