Fragile Iridopsis
Common NameFragile Iridopsis
Scientific NameIridopsis fragilaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'inchworms' or loopers, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale, mottled grey and white wings with diffuse, wavy dark lines and a small, often indistinct discal spot on the forewing. The overall cryptic pattern is characteristic of the species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, pale greyish-white wings mottled with darker grey and brown lines and speckles, providing excellent camouflage against bark or stone.
