Elphos superba
Image: Ben Sale from Stevenage, UK (CC BY 2.0)
Scientific NameElphos superba
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, mixed deciduous forests
Geographic RangeEast Asia (Japan, Korea, China, Russian Far East)
Host PlantsQuercus, Betula, Salix, Prunus
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'looper' caterpillars that mimic twigs, feeding on various broadleaf trees. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its relatively large size for a geometrid, robust body, and complex cryptic mottling of brown, grey, and white with wavy lines and a clear discal spot on the forewing.
Description
A large, robust moth with broad, mottled wings in shades of brown, grey, and white. The forewings feature intricate patterns of wavy lines, dark spots, and a prominent discal spot, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
