Nesea Slug Moth
Common NameNesea Slug Moth
Scientific NameAcharia nesea
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsblack, dark brown, blue, silver
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, plantations, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Panama)
Host Plantscoffee, cacao, avocado, mango, citrus, palms
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are slug-like, often brightly colored, and covered in urticating (stinging) spines, earning them the name 'stinging caterpillars.' Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its dark, robust appearance with distinctive iridescent blue/silver markings on the forewings. The presence of slug-like, spiny larvae is also a strong indicator for the genus.
Description
A small, robust moth with dark, often blackish-brown forewings adorned with intricate, iridescent blue or silvery markings. Its body is stout and hairy.
