Trosia semirufa
Common NameTrosia semirufa
Scientific NameTrosia semirufa
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsred, white, pale brown, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, cloud forests
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia)
Host PlantsUnknown, likely polyphagous on broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as 'flannel caterpillars' or 'puss caterpillars', are covered in dense, often urticating hairs that can cause painful stings. They pupate within cocoons that frequently incorporate these stinging hairs.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the bright red hindwings and abdomen, pale forewings marked with a line of black spots, and a fluffy white and red thorax. The black and white banded legs are also a distinctive characteristic.
Description
This moth features a fluffy white head and thorax adorned with red markings. Its forewings are pale brownish-pink with a distinct row of black spots, contrasting with its vibrant red hindwings and abdomen. The legs are conspicuously banded in black and white.
