Catocala messalina

Guenée, 1852

Messalina underwing

Catocala messalina, the Messalina underwing, is a in the Erebidae. It is one of more than 250 species in the Catocala, commonly known as underwing moths due to their habit of concealing brightly colored hindwings beneath cryptic forewings. The species was described by Achille Guenée in 1852 and is restricted to the southeastern and south-central United States.

Catocala messalina YPM ENT 765442 V by Gahm, K. J.. Used under a CC0 license.Catocala messalina YPM ENT 765442 D by Gahm, K. J.. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala messalina: /ˈkætəˌkeɪlə ˌmɛsəˈlaɪnə/

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

Identification

Catocala messalina can be distinguished from other underwing moths by its specific wing pattern and coloration, though precise identification typically requires examination of the concealed hindwing pattern revealed when the is disturbed. Like other Catocala , it possesses dull, bark-mimicking forewings that cover brightly patterned hindwings at rest. The wingspan ranges from 40–45 mm.

Images

Habitat

Associated with oak-dominated , particularly where oak (Quercus geminata, Quercus hemisphaerica, Quercus virginiana) occur. These include coastal scrub, sandhills, and oak woodlands in the southeastern United States.

Distribution

United States: from Virginia south to Florida, west to Texas, and north to Kansas.

Seasonality

are active from May to August. The likely has one per year.

Diet

Larvae feed specifically on oak : Quercus geminata (sand live oak), Quercus hemisphaerica (Darlington oak), and Quercus virginiana (live oak). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Quercus geminata - larval sand live oak
  • Quercus hemisphaerica - larval Darlington oak
  • Quercus virginiana - larval live oak

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Larvae are oak-feeding caterpillars. Adults emerge in late spring through summer. One per year is probable, though this is not definitively confirmed.

Behavior

Like other underwing moths, typically rest with forewings folded over the back, concealing the brightly colored hindwings. When disturbed, they flash the hindwings to startle before taking . Adults are and have been observed at light stations, though underwing moths generally remain on the periphery of lighted areas rather than landing directly on sheets.

Ecological Role

Larvae function as herbivores on oak foliage. likely serve as prey for including bats, birds, and arthropods. The is noted for its importance as a food source for other animals.

Human Relevance

Subject of interest to lepidopterists and enthusiasts, particularly during National Moth Week and similar citizen science events. No significant economic or pest status is documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Catocala speciesAll underwing moths share the characteristic of concealed, brightly patterned hindwings and cryptic forewings. Specific identification requires examination of hindwing pattern, genitalia, or expert verification.

Tags

Sources and further reading