Euparthenos nubilis -- the false underwing.
Posted: Mon Mar 25, 2024 11:52 pm
There is a species of moth which has evolved the cryptic
forewing coloration of underwing moths (Catocala) along
with the "flash coloration" aspect of the hindwings.
It is commonly known as the Locust Underwing (Euparthenos
nubilis) as its larval host is black locust AND it is the only
member of its genus in America north of Mexico.
Much like (true) underwings it is fond of fermenting fruit, fruit
baits, and mercury vapor lights. So, it can be an occasional or
even common visitor whenever/wherever someone seeks
catocala specimens.
The photo below features an adult (female) at the top
whilst a specimen of our Oldwife Underwing (C. paleogama)
is situated below.
It is easy to see how this species is often initially mistaken
for a true catocala by those first initiated with the method
of "sugaring for moths". It is also a wonderful example of
how evolutionary success in nature carries across a broad
spectrum of species and genera.
forewing coloration of underwing moths (Catocala) along
with the "flash coloration" aspect of the hindwings.
It is commonly known as the Locust Underwing (Euparthenos
nubilis) as its larval host is black locust AND it is the only
member of its genus in America north of Mexico.
Much like (true) underwings it is fond of fermenting fruit, fruit
baits, and mercury vapor lights. So, it can be an occasional or
even common visitor whenever/wherever someone seeks
catocala specimens.
The photo below features an adult (female) at the top
whilst a specimen of our Oldwife Underwing (C. paleogama)
is situated below.
It is easy to see how this species is often initially mistaken
for a true catocala by those first initiated with the method
of "sugaring for moths". It is also a wonderful example of
how evolutionary success in nature carries across a broad
spectrum of species and genera.