White-striped Butterfly-Moth
Common NameWhite-striped Butterfly-Moth
Scientific NameMacrosoma lucivittata
FamilyHedylidae
SubfamilyN/A
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, purple, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico to Peru (Central and South America)
Host PlantsPsychotria, Palicourea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically leaf-miners or external feeders on host plants, pupating before emerging as diurnal adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark wings with striking white longitudinal stripes, bright orange eyes, and diurnal, butterfly-like flight. The specific pattern of the white stripes and the frosted forewing tips are key features.
Description
A small, dark brown moth with prominent, somewhat iridescent white longitudinal stripes on both forewings and hindwings, bright orange eyes, and frosted greyish-white forewing tips with a subtle purple sheen.
