Forest Semilooper
Common NameForest Semilooper
Scientific NameAnomis sabulifera
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, agricultural areas, gardens
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, Australia (Afrotropical, Oriental, and Australasian regions)
Host Plantscotton, jute, okra, hibiscus, mallow
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods in temperate areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are known as 'semiloopers' due to their characteristic looping gait as they move. They feed on the leaves of various host plants, primarily in the Malvaceae family, and pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate wavy dark lines across the grey-brown forewings, the scalloped outer margin of the forewings, and its typical resting posture with wings held flat against a surface.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, typically mottled grey-brown with distinct wavy dark transverse lines and a scalloped outer margin. The hindwings are usually paler and less patterned.
