Etruscan Emerald
Common NameEtruscan Emerald
Scientific NamePhaiogramma etruscaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyGeometrinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsgreen, white
HabitatWoodlands, scrubland, gardens, maquis
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East
Host PlantsPistacia lentiscus, Quercus, Rhamnus, Juniperus, Olea
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' characteristic of Geometridae, typically green or brown for camouflage on their host plants. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features for identification are its bright green coloration, the specific pattern of wavy white lines on the wings, and the green fringes. Careful examination of the line patterns helps distinguish it from other similar green geometers.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with vibrant green wings, marked by several distinct wavy white transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings, and green fringes.
