Rosy Atascosa Moth
Common NameRosy Atascosa Moth
Scientific NameAtascosa blanda
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, white
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, open woodlands, grasslands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (e.g., Arizona, Texas) and Mexico
Host PlantsAcacia species (e.g., Catclaw Acacia)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike most moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. The larvae feed on the foliage of its host plants.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, slender build, and the distinctive mottled brownish forewings with rosy or reddish hues, especially along the leading edge and a speckled whitish lower margin.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled brownish forewings that often display rosy or reddish tints, particularly along the costa and a pale, speckled lower margin. Its body is also slender, and it possesses relatively long, simple antennae.
