Spiloloma lunilinea

The moon-lined moth is distinguished from similar brown erebid moths by the prominent, pale, curved transverse line on the forewing—often appearing as a crescent or arc. This marking is usually more distinct than the wavy or straight lines found in related genera such as Catocala or Zale. The pale hindwings with a dark terminal band separate it from underwing moths (Catocala), which have boldly patterned hindwings. Compared to other Spiloloma species (if any occur sympatrically), S. lunilinea is the primary documented species in its range.

Medium-sized moth with forewings marked by a distinctive pale, curved or crescent-shaped line (the 'moon line') against darker ground color. Forewing ground color ranges from brown to grayish-brown. Hindwings are pale, often whitish or light gray, with a darker terminal band. Body is moderately robust with typical erebid moth proportions.

Deciduous and mixed forests, woodland edges, and adjacent open areas. Adults are frequently attracted to artificial light sources in suburban and rural settings near forested habitat.

Eastern and south-central North America. Documented from the northeastern United States west to the Great Plains and south to Texas and the Gulf Coast states.

Adults have been observed from late spring through early autumn, with peak activity during summer months. Specific flight period varies by latitude.

Adults are nocturnal and strongly attracted to light. Larval behavior and specific activity patterns remain undocumented in available sources.

Subject of citizen science documentation through platforms such as iNaturalist. No known economic or agricultural significance.

• Catocala spp. (underwing moths)Similar forewing coloration and size, but underwing moths have boldly patterned hindwings (bands, spots, or bright colors) rather than the pale hindwings with simple dark terminal band of Spiloloma.
• Zale spp.Similar brown forewings and size, but Zale species typically display more irregular, wavy, or multiple transverse lines rather than the single prominent curved pale line characteristic of S. lunilinea.

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life