Hodges#7474

Eupithecia miserulata

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Geometroidea
Family: Geometridae
Subfamily: Larentiinae
Tribe: Eupitheciini
Genus: Eupithecia
Species: miserulata

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eupithecia miserulata: /ˌjuːpɪˈθiːsiə mɪˌzɛrjuːˈleɪtə/

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Summary

Eupithecia miserulata, commonly known as the common eupithecia, is a moth of the Geometridae family, first described in 1863. It is prevalent across North America, with larvae that feed on a wide range of plants.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan 12–20 mm; grayish to grayish brown adult with indistinct patterns except for a prominent discal dot. Larvae are variable in color, typically featuring diagonal lines that form arrow patterns on the dorsum.

Identification Tips

Specimens can be identified by a prominent discal dot and distinct 8th sternite in males, visible when scales are brushed off the tail.

Habitat

Adult moths are found in a variety of habitats, including suburban areas and forests where their food plants grow.

Distribution

From Ontario and Maine in the north to Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas in the south. Also found in Arizona and California, extending to Washington.

Diet

Larvae feed on a variety of plants including aster, clover, coneflower, hoptree, juniper, oak, cherry, and willow.

Life Cycle

The species overwinters as a pupa. Adults are active and can be observed flying from March to November depending on the location.

Reproduction

Three or more overlapping generations are noted, particularly on Block Island, Rhode Island, where adults fly from May through November.

Ecosystem Role

As herbivores, larvae play a role in the plant community by feeding on various plants and possibly influencing plant dynamics.