Florida Marathyssa Moth
Common NameFlorida Marathyssa Moth
Scientific NameMarathyssa inficita
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPantheinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Florida north to New York and west to Texas and Missouri
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are caterpillars that feed on oak leaves before pupating and emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive cryptic pattern of mottled browns and greys, which gives it a 'crumpled leaf' or 'bark' appearance. The prominent palps are also a key feature.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings that have a crinkled, bark-like appearance, allowing for excellent camouflage. The body is robust and similarly colored.
