Straight-lined Mallow Moth
Common NameStraight-lined Mallow Moth
Scientific NameBagisara rectifascia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyBagisarinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatDisturbed areas, fields, gardens, and open woodlands where host plants are abundant.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, extending west to Texas and north into parts of the Midwest.
Host PlantsMalva spp., Sida spp., other plants in the Malvaceae family
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. The larvae are caterpillars that feed on various plants belonging to the mallow family (Malvaceae).
Identification TipsKey features include the pale tan to light brown coloration of the forewings, the presence of distinct but often faint straight or slightly wavy transverse lines, and its association with mallow host plants.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth characterized by its pale, mottled tan to light brown forewings, which are marked with several faint, darker, somewhat straight transverse lines.
