Polygrammodes ponderalis
Scientific NamePolygrammodes ponderalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, yellow, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, southern United States (e.g., Florida, Texas)
Host PlantsSolanum erianthum, Solanum torvum
Flight PeriodMultiple broods year-round in tropical regions; warmer months in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on Solanum species, pupating in a cocoon before emerging as nocturnal adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive pattern of dark reddish-brown and irregular yellowish-orange patches on the wings, particularly the broad central band on the forewings, and its association with Solanum host plants.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings patterned in rich reddish-brown and irregular yellowish-orange patches, featuring a broad dark band across the middle and a yellowish-orange basal area. The hindwings are similarly patterned but often paler.
