Hypsoropha monilis

Fabricius, 1777

Large Necklace Moth

Hypsoropha monilis, the large necklace , is a moth in the Erebidae found in the southeastern United States. are recognized by a distinctive white postmedial band of spots across brown wings, resembling a necklace—hence both the and specific epithet. The species was first described by Johan Christian Fabricius in 1777.

Hypsoropha monilis P1040471a by 
xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.- 8527 – Hypsoropha monilis – Large Necklace Moth (17496211016) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Hypsoropha monilis - Large Necklace Moth (15438609344) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hypsoropha monilis: /hɪpˈsɔrəfə ˈmɔnɪlɪs/

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Identification

Distinguished from the small necklace moth (Hypsoropha hormos) by larger size; the two overlap broadly in range and share similar pattern elements. The white postmedial spot band meeting at inner wing margins is diagnostic for the and species pair.

Images

Distribution

Southeastern United States, from Texas and Kansas westward to Florida and Maryland eastward.

Seasonality

active February through October, with peak abundance March to May.

Similar Taxa

  • Hypsoropha hormosShares the necklace and white postmedial spot pattern, but is smaller in size. Ranges overlap broadly.

More Details

Etymology

The specific epithet monilis is Latin for necklace or collar, directly referencing the distinctive white spot band on the wings.

Sources and further reading