Seagrape Spanworm Moth
Common NameSeagrape Spanworm Moth
Scientific NamePleuroprucha insulsaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorspale green, reddish-brown, pink, black
HabitatCoastal hammocks, scrub, woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Gulf Coast), Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsCoccoloba uvifera (Seagrape)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical and subtropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' characteristic of the Geometridae family, feeding on the leaves of their host plants.
Identification TipsLook for the pale green wings with faint reddish-brown wavy lines, the distinct reddish discal spot on each forewing, and the pinkish or purplish coloration along the costal margin. Its presence near seagrape plants is a strong indicator.
Description
A small, delicate moth with pale green wings, often marked with faint reddish-brown wavy lines and a prominent reddish discal spot on each forewing, and a distinctive pinkish or purplish costal margin.
