Paracles deserticola
Common NameParacles deserticola
Scientific NameParacles deserticola
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, cream
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, scrublands
Geographic RangeArgentina, Chile
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodSpring to summer
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesFemales are flightless and attract males via pheromones. Larvae are typically hairy, feeding on various herbaceous plants before pupating.
Identification TipsThe female is easily identified by its distinctive, very hairy, segmented, and wingless body with alternating light and dark bands. Males are winged and also hairy, but have a more typical moth appearance.
Description
This is a robust, very fluffy moth, likely a female, with a segmented body covered in dense, light brown to tan fur. Its posterior segments feature lighter, almost cream-colored bands, giving it a striped appearance, and it lacks visible wings.
