Melonworm Moth
Common NameMelonworm Moth
Scientific NameDiaphania hyalinata
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)27
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorswhite, brown, transparent
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, and areas where cucurbit plants are cultivated.
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (especially Florida and Gulf Coast), Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Migrates northward into temperate regions during warmer months.
Host Plantsmelon, squash, cucumber, pumpkin, gourds
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical/subtropical areas; May to October in temperate regions due to migration.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the underside of host plant leaves. Larvae are pale green with two white stripes, feeding on the leaves and fruit of cucurbits. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often within a folded leaf.
Identification TipsKey features include the transparent white wings with a dark brown border and the prominent, bushy orange-brown anal tuft at the end of the abdomen.
Description
This moth features translucent white wings with a broad, dark brown border. Its body is slender and white, with a distinctive bushy orange-brown tuft at the tip of the abdomen.
