Schaus' Tussock Moth
Common NameSchaus' Tussock Moth
Scientific NameEloria schausi
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorstan, yellow, black, blue, green
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, cloud forests
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (e.g., Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru)
Host PlantsPalicourea, Miconia
Flight PeriodYear-round (in tropical regions)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (hairy caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae feed on the leaves of various broadleaf trees.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique geometric pattern of dark lines on the pale tan wings, the prominent black and yellow markings near the wing bases, and the distinctive bright yellow and blue-green striped abdomen.
Description
A striking moth with pale tan wings featuring a bold geometric network of dark lines, and a vibrant abdomen striped with yellow and iridescent blue-green.
