Diaphania elegans
Common NameDiaphania elegans
Scientific NameDiaphania elegans
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, pale yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical disturbed areas, gardens, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (e.g., Brazil)
Host PlantsCucurbita spp. (squash, pumpkin)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, multiple generations
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically green caterpillars that feed on the leaves and fruits of host plants, often pupating in a silken cocoon on the plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific pattern of dark brown margins on white/pale yellow wings, the diagnostic pale yellow streak on the forewing, and the large, brush-like yellowish-brown coremata (abdominal tuft) in males.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth characterized by its dark brown wing borders and a central white to pale yellow area. The forewings feature a distinct pale yellow streak, and males possess a prominent, fluffy yellowish-brown abdominal tuft.
