Lantana Moth
Common NameLantana Moth
Scientific NameDiastema tigris
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical areas, disturbed lands, gardens, open woodlands, scrublands
Geographic RangeNative to Central and South America; introduced to Australia, India, East Africa, and other regions for biological control
Host PlantsLantana camara
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are caterpillars that feed exclusively on Lantana leaves, undergoing several instars before pupating in a cocoon, typically in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive black and white tiger-like pattern on the wings, the bright orange head and thorax, and its strong association with Lantana plants.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its bold black and white striped and spotted wings, often with a contrasting orange head and thorax.
