Pacific Northwest Moths

Identification

Adults

This moth is distinctive and is unlikely to be confused with other Pacific Northwest species in its limited range in urban centers in our region. The busy forewing pattern of flowing lines is reminiscent of Polychrysia morigera, an uncommonly observed moth that occurs in western Oregon and eastern Idaho in association with its foodplant, larkspurs. Callopistria floridensis has warm brown forewing, lightest in the antemedial area and near the reniform post, with violet gray mottling distal to the postmedial line. The pattern features triangular dark brown patches along the costal margin, one between the antemedial line and reniform spot and the other between the anterior portions of the postmedial and subterminal lines. The normal noctuiform spots are inconspicuous. The outer margin comes to a point near the mid-wing, with a thin dark mark in the adjacent terminal area. The hindwing is gray, yellowish near the base, with mottled gray and white fringe.

Habitat

Distribution

Pacific Northwest

This moth has recently been photographed in Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia, and Seattle, Washington.

Global

Callopistria floridensis is distributed widely in the New World, from southern Canada to northern South America. In North America it occurs predominantly east of the Great Plains and in Texas.

Life History

Larvae

The larva is a generalist feeder on ferns.

Adults

Adults of this moth can be found at all times of the year in tropical climates.

Economic Importance

This species has caused damage to ornamental ferns in greenhouses, including in California.

Literature

BugGuide

Moth Photographers Group