Ironweed Clearwing Moth
Common NameIronweed Clearwing Moth
Scientific NameCarmenta bassiformis
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsyellow, black, brown
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, roadsides where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsIronweed (Vernonia spp.)
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding within the roots and lower stems of ironweed plants. Pupation occurs within the stem, and adults emerge during the day.
Identification TipsLook for its transparent wings, distinct yellow and dark banded abdomen, and white-tipped antennae. It is often seen flying during the day, mimicking a wasp, and is typically found near its ironweed host plants.
Description
A small, wasp-mimicking moth with mostly transparent wings, a dark purplish-black abdomen banded with bright yellow, and yellow legs. Its antennae are dark with prominent white tips.
