Thallophaga

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Thallophaga: //θæloʊˈfæɡə//

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Summary

Thallophaga is a genus of moths within the family Geometridae, comprising three species in North America. They are notable for their unique wing coloring and feeding habits during the larval stage.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan 31-34 mm; forewings light to medium brown or grayish-brown with dark speckling, pale veins, and a PM line; diffuse dark median line with a pointed apex; PM line has black dots at veins and blends into a short diffuse apical dash.

Identification Tips

Adult moths can be identified by their light to medium brown or grayish-brown forewings, which feature dark speckling and a pointed apex with a slightly falcate outer margin. The presence of specific larval coloration can also be useful for identifying the species.

Habitat

Wet western coniferous forests from California to British Columbia.

Distribution

North America, specifically from California to British Columbia.

Diet

Larvae of Thallophaga hyperborea are solitary defoliators of conifers, while larvae of Thallophaga taylorata feed on ferns, particularly the Western Swordfern (Polystichum munitum).

Life Cycle

Overwinters as a pupa buried in soil; adults emerge in April and May; larvae present from May to August, with pupation occurring in late summer.

Reproduction

Adults emerge in the spring to mate and lay eggs, with larvae developing through the summer.

Ecosystem Role

As herbivores, the larvae play a role in the ecosystem by influencing plant community dynamics, particularly among conifers and ferns.

Evolution

The genus Thallophaga was described by George Duryea Hulst in 1896; it is part of the family Geometridae within the order Lepidoptera.

Similar Taxa

• Geometridae
• Ennominae

Tags

• Thallophaga
• moths
• Geometridae
• North America
• Lepidoptera