Pygarctia murina

The small wingspan (26–33 mm) and uniform mouse-gray coloration distinguish adults from more brightly patterned relatives in the genus Pygarctia. The flight period (late July to September) and restricted southwestern U.S. distribution provide additional diagnostic context. Larvae may be recognized by their association with Euphorbia host plants.

Arid and semi-arid environments of the southwestern United States, including scrublands and desert margins where host plants (Euphorbia and Funastrum species) occur.

United States: south-western Utah, southern Colorado, south-eastern California, and southern Texas.

Adults are on wing from late July to September.

Larvae feed on Euphorbia species and have been successfully reared on Funastrum species. Adult diet is not documented.

• Euphorbia - larval food plantPrimary host genus
• Funastrum - larval food plantSecondary host, used in rearing

Complete metamorphosis with documented larval and pupal stages. Larvae grow to approximately 22 mm before pupating in silken cocoons within surface debris. Adult emergence occurs from late July through September.

Larval herbivore on Euphorbia and Funastrum; specific ecological functions (pollination, predation, parasitism) are not documented.

• Other Pygarctia speciesP. murina is distinguished by its smaller size, uniform mouse-gray coloration, and restricted southwestern distribution compared to more brightly patterned or larger congeners.

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