Harlequin Geometer
Common NameHarlequin Geometer
Scientific NamePityeja histrionaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical montane forests, cloud forests
Geographic RangeSouth America (Andean regions: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia)
Host Plantsvarious broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical habitats
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically 'inchworms' that feed on foliage, pupating in the soil or leaf litter before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique 'harlequin' pattern of radial orange and white stripes, the scalloped hindwing margins, and the distinct black spots on the orange hindwing base.
Description
This moth exhibits a striking pattern of broad, radiating orange stripes on a white background across its wings. The hindwings feature a scalloped outer margin and prominent black spots on an orange base.
