Inscribed Emerald
Common NameInscribed Emerald
Scientific NameThetidia smaragdaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyGeometrinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgreen, reddish-brown
HabitatDry grasslands, heathlands, coastal dunes, chalk downlands
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Central Asia
Host PlantsArtemisia campestris, Artemisia maritima, Artemisia vulgaris
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are camouflaged, feeding on various Artemisia species. They pupate in a cocoon on or near the ground, with one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the vibrant green coloration, the subtle wavy lines across the wings, and the reddish-brown fringe along the wing margins.
Description
A medium-sized moth with bright emerald green wings, which may fade to yellowish-green with age, featuring faint wavy whitish or reddish-brown cross-lines.
