Scar bank gem
Common NameScar bank gem
Scientific NamePanthea acronyctoides
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPantheinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, grey, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantspine, spruce, fir, hemlock
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on conifer needles. They pupate in a cocoon on the host plant or in leaf litter, overwintering as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for its rugged, tufted appearance and the distinctive irregular pale patch on its dark, mottled forewings. It typically rests on tree trunks, blending seamlessly with bark.
Description
This medium-sized moth exhibits exceptional camouflage, with a rough, bark-like texture and mottled dark brown, black, and grey forewings. A prominent, irregular pale greenish-white patch is a key feature near the center of each forewing.
