Phragmatobia lineata

Newman & Donahue, 1966

Lined Ruby Tiger Moth

Phragmatobia lineata, commonly known as the lined ruby tiger moth, is a of tiger moth in the Erebidae. It was described by Newman and Donahue in 1966. The species is associated with prairie and has a relatively restricted distribution in North America. are active in spring, with a period from early to late May. The species is part of the diverse tiger moth group, which includes many species with bright warning coloration.

Phragmatobia lineata caterpillar (30182046742) by Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors from Stevenage, United Kingdom. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phragmatobia lineata: /fræɡˈmeɪtɔˌbia lɪˈniːətə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

The lined ruby tiger moth can be distinguished from other Phragmatobia by the prominent longitudinal lines on the forewings. The wingspan of approximately 57 mm and spring period help separate it from similar tiger moths in the same region. The prairie association is also a useful distinguishing feature compared to related species that occupy different .

Images

Appearance

have a wingspan of approximately 57 mm. The forewings are characterized by distinct longitudinal lines, giving the its . The overall coloration is in the ruby tiger moth palette, with reddish and brown tones typical of the Phragmatobia.

Habitat

Prairie . The is specifically associated with grassland in the northern Great Plains and adjacent regions.

Distribution

North-eastern United States, west to Manitoba and Alberta in Canada. Distribution records include Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Vermont.

Seasonality

are on wing from early to late May. The has a single with a narrow spring window.

Diet

The larvae probably feed on various low-growing plants. Specific plant records are not well documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Phragmatobia fuliginosaRuby tiger moth, widespread Palearctic ; differs in distribution and wing pattern without distinct longitudinal lines
  • Other Arctiinae speciesMany tiger moths share similar size and general appearance; P. lineata distinguished by lined forewings and prairie

Tags

Sources and further reading