Halysidota

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Halysidota: //ˌhæ.lɪˈsaɪ.doʊ.tə//

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Summary

Halysidota tessellaris, commonly known as the pale tiger moth or banded tussock moth, belongs to the family Erebidae and is characterized by its distinctively patterned wings and hairy body. The larvae are notable for their long setae and bright orange head capsules.

Physical Characteristics

Adult moths have light brown wings with bands of beige edged in black. The body is hairy and yellow, and the thorax has blue-green lines on its uppersides. Larvae are covered with long setae in tufts, ranging from yellowish and orange to dark gray, with bright orange head capsules.

Identification Tips

Halysidota tessellaris and harrisii can be determined by brushing the scales off the terminal end of the abdomen. Identification to species is complex and mostly requires dissection.

Habitat

Found in various habitats across North America, typically associated with host plants where larvae feed.

Distribution

North America from southern Canada south through Texas and central Florida.

Diet

Larvae feed on some species of alder, ash, birch, blueberry, chestnut, elm, grape, hackberry, hazel, oak, walnut, and willow. Adult moths acquire defensive chemicals from decaying plants with pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Life Cycle

One generation per year occurs in the north, while two or more generations occur in the south. Pupae overwinter in gray cocoons laced with larval hairs.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid in masses on the undersides of leaves.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in the food web as both a herbivore and prey for other wildlife.

Economic Impact

No serious injury to trees has been reported for this late-season feeder.

Tags

• Lepidoptera
• moths
• Halysidota
• Erebidae
• tiger moths