Short-lined Chocolate
Common NameShort-lined Chocolate
Scientific NameMocis latipes
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)42
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatGrasslands, agricultural fields, open disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Central America, South America
Host Plantsgrasses, corn, rice, sugarcane
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to November in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are semi-loopers that feed on various grasses, often considered agricultural pests. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic dark brown wings with two bold, pale, diagonal lines that cross both the forewings and hindwings when at rest. The lines are often slightly irregular.
Description
This medium-sized moth has rich chocolate brown forewings distinctly marked with two prominent, pale cream to yellowish diagonal lines. The hindwings are also brown with a pale fringe.
