Hodges#6659
Phigalia denticulata
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Lepidoptera
- Superfamily: Geometroidea
- Family: Geometridae
- Subfamily: Ennominae
- Tribe: Bistonini
- Genus: Phigalia
- Species: denticulata
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phigalia denticulata: /faɪˈɡeɪliə ˌdɛntɪkjʊˈleɪtə/
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Images
Summary
Phigalia denticulata, the toothed phigalia, is a moth of the family Geometridae, notable for its distinct wing markings and limited flight capability in females. It plays a role in the ecosystem as a feeder on deciduous trees and has a limited but widespread distribution across parts of North America.
Physical Characteristics
Wingspan: male 30-37 mm, female 2 mm (vestigial wings). Adult male has mottled gray forewings with thin black wavy lines and a sharply-toothed PM line near the costa. The hindwings are light gray with a toothed median line and diffuse speckling; females have vestigial wings and cannot fly.
Identification Tips
Can be confused with Phigalia strigataria; distinguishable by a distinct dark 'tooth' on the M1 vein in denticulata, which is absent or greatly reduced in strigataria.
Habitat
Wooded areas; adult males are attracted to light.
Distribution
Found from Ontario and New York to Florida, west to Texas, north to Missouri and Iowa. There are also records from Utah.
Diet
Larvae probably feed on the leaves of hardwood trees, particularly deciduous trees.
Life Cycle
Adults are on wing from December to April in southern regions and from late March to April in northern areas.
Similar Taxa
Tags
- moth
- Geometridae
- Phigalia denticulata
- toothed phigalia