Lycomorpha pholus (Drury, 1773)
93-0201
Black-and-yellow Lichen Moth
RI : Block Island Co.
Dickens Point
August 26, 1986, L Crabo & G Morrell.
Specimen courtesy of LGCC
Photograph copyright: Merrill A. Peterson
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Data Filters
Date Range
Elevation (ft)
Identification
Adults
Lycomorpha pholus is an unmistakable day-flying orange and black medium-size erebid moth (FW length 13–15 mm) that occurs at the very eastern edge of the Pacific Northwest region during July. The entire moth is jet black with a slight sheen when fresh, except the basal third of the forewing, a smaller portion of the basal hindwing, and the thoracic tegulae are contrasting orange or reddish orange. The antennae are relatively thick and lack pectinations.
This moth cannot be mistaken for any other PNW species. The striking color and pattern mimics distasteful net-winged beetles (family Lycidae).
Larvae
Habitat
Lycomorpha pholus has been found in dry relatively low-elevation locales in the PNW, including ponderosa pine forest and shrub steppe.
Distribution
Pacific Northwest
Lycomorpha pholus is only known from photographs on iNaturalist taken in eastern Idaho and Northwestern Montana. It is likely to be widespread near the eastern edge of our region but this area is relatively poorly sampled for moths.
Global
This moth is widespread in eastern and central North America from southern Canada to New Mexico, Texas, and Georgia.
Life History
Larvae
The larva feeds on lichens like those of other species in the tribe Lithosiini.
Adults
Adults are diurnal and visit flowers. The flight period is summer, with the few PNW records from mid and late July.
Economic Importance
None.
