Cosmosoma stilbosticta
Common NameCosmosoma stilbosticta
Scientific NameCosmosoma stilbosticta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, orange, transparent
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, clearings, and gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and South America
Host PlantsVarious plants, including species from Apocynaceae and Asteraceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
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 the transparent wings with black venation and markings, the bright orange and black segmented abdomen, and its overall resemblance to a wasp.
Description
A wasp-mimicking moth characterized by its black head and thorax, a vibrant orange abdomen with a black tip, and largely transparent wings featuring black veins and dark patches at the wing tips and a distinct spot on the forewing.
