Lycomorpha

Lycomorpha

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lycomorpha: /laɪkoʊˈmɔrfə/

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

Images

- 8087 – Lycomorpha pholus – Black-and-yellow Lichen Moth (9887606146) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Lycomorpha regulus or L. fulgens - Flickr - gailhampshire by gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Lycomorpha P1510965a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Lycomorpha P1510969a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Lycomorpha P1510958a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Lycomorpha P1510981a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Lycomorpha is a genus of moths in the family Erebidae, with six described species in North America. Notably, Lycomorpha pholus is recognized for its black-and-yellow lichen moth appearance, primarily inhabiting short-grass prairie and feeding on lichen during its larval stage.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan of 25–32 mm; black-and-yellow coloring in adults.

Identification Tips

Look for black-and-yellow coloration and a wingspan of 25–32 mm.

Habitat

Short-grass prairie.

Distribution

North America from Nova Scotia to North Carolina, west to South Dakota and Texas.

Diet

Larvae feed on lichen.

Ecosystem Role

Serves as a pollinator and a part of the food web.

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • Lepidoptera
  • Erebidae
  • Arctiinae
  • North America
  • Moths
  • Lycomorpha pholus