Wax Myrtle Wave
Common NameWax Myrtle Wave
Scientific NameCyclophora myrtaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilySterrhinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Primary Colorstan, light brown, black
HabitatSandy areas, pine barrens, coastal plains, open woodlands where wax myrtle grows
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Maryland south to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsMyrica cerifera, Myrica caroliniensis
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of Wax Myrtle and other Myrica species. Like all moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis through egg, larval (caterpillar), pupal, and adult stages.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale, speckled wings, the characteristic offset and angled postmedial line on the forewing, and its association with Wax Myrtle. Small black dots on the abdomen are also often present.
Description
A small, pale tan to light brown moth with fine dark speckling across its wings. It features a faint, wavy postmedial line on the forewing that is often offset near the costa, and small black discal spots.
