Melipotis famelica
Common NameMelipotis famelica
Scientific NameMelipotis famelica
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, cream
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, scrublands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States, Mexico, Central America
Host PlantsProsopis spp. (mesquite), Acacia spp.
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically stout, striped loopers that feed on legumes, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its intricate, mottled brown and grey forewing pattern, including a distinct pale reniform spot and wavy postmedial and subterminal lines, often found in association with mesquite and acacia.
Description
This is a medium-sized, cryptically patterned moth with forewings displaying a complex mosaic of browns, greys, and blacks, accented by wavy dark lines and a prominent, often pale, kidney-shaped spot.
