Pyrgo Fruit-piercing Moth
Common NamePyrgo Fruit-piercing Moth
Scientific NameGonodonta pyrgo
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCalpinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, purplish-brown, cream
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, orchards
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America, northern South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsCissampelos (Menispermaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on specific host plants, and adults are nocturnal, known for piercing ripe fruits to feed on their juices.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique irregular shape of the forewings, the contrasting pale streak on the inner margin of the forewing, and the overall dark brown/purplish coloration. Its resting posture, resembling a dead leaf, is also characteristic.
Description
This moth has distinctive dark brown to purplish-brown forewings with an irregular, almost scalloped termen and a prominent cream or yellowish streak along the inner margin when at rest. Its body is robust, and it often rests in a triangular, leaf-like posture.
