Metabus Moth
Common NameMetabus Moth
Scientific NameHylesia metabus
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouth America (Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela, Trinidad)
Host Plantsmango, cashew, eucalyptus, guava, citrus, coffee, cacao
Flight PeriodYear-round (nocturnal)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious and covered in urticating hairs, which can cause severe dermatitis. They feed on a variety of broadleaf plants before pupating. Adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for the light brown forewings with two wavy darker brown bands and a small white apical spot. The robust, furry body is also characteristic. Be aware of urticating hairs.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with light brown forewings featuring two distinct wavy darker brown transverse bands and a small white spot at the apex. The body is densely covered in light brown fur.
