Synchlora pectinaria
(Grossbeck, 1910)
Synchlora pectinaria is a of emerald moth in the Geometridae, described by Grossbeck in 1910. Like other members of the Synchlora, its caterpillars are known for adorning their bodies with bits of plant material—flower petals, leaves, and other vegetation—to achieve remarkable camouflage. This , shared with the more widespread S. aerata, makes the larvae exceptionally difficult to detect among the flowers and foliage they consume. The species is part of the emerald moth group ( Geometrinae), characterized by their typically green coloration.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Synchlora pectinaria: //sɪnˈklɔːrə ˌpɛktɪˈnɛəriə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
North America (present, based on GBIF records). Specific range details beyond continental presence are not documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Synchlora aerataWidespread eastern North American emerald with nearly identical larval camouflage ; larvae adorn themselves with plant material. S. pectinaria is less well-known and likely restricted to more southern regions compared to the broadly distributed S. aerata.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Mystery of the frass revealed: Camouflaged looper, Synchlora aerata — Bug of the Week
- Plants as camouflage - who thought of it first? Meet the camouflaged looper, Synchlora aerate — Bug of the Week
- Geometridae | Beetles In The Bush
- Lepidoptera | Beetles In The Bush | Page 7
- October | 2012 | Beetles In The Bush
- Archive — Bug of the Week