Indecisive Moth
Common NameIndecisive Moth
Scientific NameHypercompe indecisa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsgrey, tan, dark brown, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina)
Host PlantsRicinus communis, Musa, Manihot esculenta, Ipomoea, Citrus, Eucalyptus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, warmer months in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, hairy larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae are polyphagous on various broadleaf plants.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive intricate, wavy dark brown/black pattern on a light grey/tan forewing background. The robust body and often brightly colored hindwings (though not visible in this dorsal view) are also characteristic of the genus.
Description
This robust moth features forewings with an intricate, cryptic pattern of wavy dark brown to black lines and spots on a light grey or tan background, providing excellent camouflage.
