Metalectra diabolica

Barnes & Benjamin, 1924

diabolical fungus moth

Metalectra diabolica is a small in the Erebidae, first described in 1924. It occurs in the southeastern and south-central United States, with active primarily during spring and summer months. The is known to feed on fungi during its larval stage.

Metalectra diabolica - Diabolical Fungus Moth (15873463418) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.- 8503 – Metalectra diabolica – Diabolical Fungus Moth (15873463418) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.- 8503 – Metalectra diabolica – Diabolical Fungus Moth by Wildreturn. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Metalectra diabolica: //ˌmɛtəˈlektrə ˌdaɪəˈbɒlɪkə//

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

Identification

Wingspan measures 18–23 mm. are on the wing from May to October, with peak activity in May. The specific wing pattern and coloration distinguishing it from are not documented in available sources.

Images

Distribution

Recorded from North Carolina south to Florida, and west from Arkansas to Texas.

Seasonality

have been recorded from May to October, with most records concentrated in May.

Diet

Larvae feed on fungi.

Life Cycle

Complete with , larval, pupal, and stages. Specific timing of stages is not documented.

Ecological Role

Larval contributes to nutrient cycling in forest .

Tags

Sources and further reading