Hodges#8834

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala amatrix: /ˌkætəˈkeɪlə əˈmeɪtrɪks/

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Summary

Catocala amatrix, commonly known as the sweetheart underwing, is a notably large moth belonging to the family Erebidae. It is characterized by its distinctive coloration and is often found in wooded areas across Eastern North America. Its larvae primarily feed on various Populus species and black willow. This species is notable for its wide distribution and variable forms.

Physical Characteristics

Very large moth with a wingspan of 75-95 mm. Forewings are grayish to purplish-brown with wavy black lines, and a typical form has a diffuse broken black band running from the basal area to the apex. Forms include electa (lacks the black band), pallida (very pale), and hesseli (very dark). Hindwings are pinkish-red with black bands and a wide yellowish-white fringe.

Identification Tips

The species can be identified by its distinctive forewing patterns and the coloration of the hindwings. The presence of a broken black band can help differentiate among the forms.

Habitat

Found in a variety of wooded habitats, often resting under bark and in crevices.

Distribution

Eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to Florida and west through Texas and Oklahoma to Arizona, north to Montana, Minnesota, and Ontario.

Diet

Larvae feed on the leaves of Populus species (such as Populus deltoides, Populus grandidentata, Populus nigra, Populus tremuloides) and black willow (Salix nigra).

Life Cycle

Overwinters as an egg; eggs are laid on tree bark in the fall and hatch in the spring. Larvae feed on foliage, descend the trunk to pupate on the ground, and adults emerge from pupae at the soil surface.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid on tree bark in the fall and hatch in the spring. Adults emerge in late summer.

Ecosystem Role

As a moth species, it plays a role in the food web, both as a herbivore in its larval stage and as prey for various predators in its adult form.

Cultural Significance

The specific epithet 'amatrix' is Latin for 'female lover', which may carry cultural or literary significance.

Tags

• moth
• Erebidae
• Catocala
• Noctuoidea
• insect
• Canada
• USA