Palo Verde webworm
Common NamePalo Verde webworm
Scientific NameStenoma catenifer
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyStenomatinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Primary Colorsbrown, black, orange, white
HabitatDeserts, arid regions, urban and agricultural areas where host plants are present
Geographic RangeSouthwestern US (Arizona, California), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsPalo Verde (Parkinsonia spp.), Avocado (Persea americana), Acacia, Erythrina, Inga, Mangifera, Quercus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in temperate zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are webworms that feed on the leaves and shoots of host plants, creating silken webs for protection. Pupation typically occurs within the web or in the soil. Multiple generations can occur annually.
Identification TipsLook for a small, cryptically patterned moth with a distinctive mottled brown, black, and reddish-orange forewing, often with a speckled lighter terminal area. Commonly found near Palo Verde or avocado trees.
Description
A small moth with mottled forewings displaying a complex pattern of brown, black, and reddish-orange patches, culminating in a lighter, speckled area near the wing tip.
