Hodges#6420

Narraga fimetaria

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Geometroidea
Family: Geometridae
Subfamily: Ennominae
Tribe: Macariini
Genus: Narraga
Species: fimetaria

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Narraga fimetaria: /nəˈræɡə fɪˈmɛtəriə/

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Summary

Fernaldella fimetaria, also known as the green broomweed looper, is a species of geometrid moth first described in 1870. It is characterized by its size and distinct coloring, and primarily inhabits dry shrublands. Its larvae feed on specific plants and it has a seasonal flight pattern.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan 12-24 mm; forewing length 8-10 mm; upperside of wings light to medium brown with pale yellowish patches along the costa; fringe is checkered dark brown and white; feathery antennae distinguish them from butterflies.

Identification Tips

Adults are often mistaken for butterflies due to their day-active behavior and wing posture. The distinction lies in their feathery antennae and patterning on the hindwings.

Habitat

Dry shrublands and sparsely-vegetated sandy areas.

Distribution

Common in south and southwest Texas; found from Texas and Oklahoma to California, with strays reaching northern Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Diet

Larvae have been recorded feeding on prairie broomweed (Amphiachyris dracunculoides) and threadleaf snakeweed (Gutierrezia microcephala).

Life Cycle

One or two generations per year; adults fly from May to August in northern areas and as early as March in southern areas.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid in ropelike rows.

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for butterflies due to their wings and behavior during the day.