Siam Weed Defoliator
Common NameSiam Weed Defoliator
Scientific NamePareuchaetes pseudoinsulata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorspale yellow, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical regions, disturbed areas, open fields, forest edges where host plant is present.
Geographic RangeNative to Central and South America; introduced to Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands, and parts of Africa.
Host PlantsChromolaena odorata (Siam weed)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy, gregarious, and feed voraciously on Siam weed, often causing significant defoliation. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its uniform pale yellow wings, bright orange abdomen with a dorsal row of black spots, and its strong association with the host plant, Siam weed.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with uniform pale yellow to cream-colored forewings and hindwings. Its abdomen is bright orange with a distinct dorsal row of prominent black spots.
