Megastes praxiteles
Common NameMegastes praxiteles
Scientific NameMegastes praxiteles
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorscream, brown, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical agricultural areas, forests, and disturbed lands
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador)
Host Plantssweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), other Convolvulaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with peaks depending on local conditions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically stem or root borers, often found within the stems or tubers of host plants like sweet potato.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique and complex reticulated wing pattern of cream and dark brown, which forms a mosaic-like design. The overall appearance is somewhat cryptic.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth characterized by intricate, reticulated wing patterns of cream and dark brown, creating a mosaic-like appearance across both forewings and hindwings.
