Spotted Phosphila Moth
Common NameSpotted Phosphila Moth
Scientific NamePhosphila turbulenta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAgaristinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, thickets, and areas with host plants (Smilax)
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsSmilax spp. (greenbrier)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are brightly colored, often striped with yellow and black, and feed exclusively on Smilax leaves. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled green and brown forewings with two prominent white spots. The robust body and overall cryptic coloration are also key features.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a robust body and forewings featuring a complex, mottled pattern of dark green, brown, and black, highlighted by two prominent, contrasting white spots on each forewing.
