Macrurocampa

Species in this genus can be distinguished from other Heterocampinae by a combination of genitalic characters and forewing pattern elements. Macrurocampa marthesia, the most commonly encountered species, shows a distinctive mottled gray-brown forewing with darker transverse lines and a small discal spot. The genus name refers to the elongated anal margin of the hindwing in some species. Accurate identification to species level generally requires examination of genitalia.

Species occupy a range of forested and shrubland habitats. Macrurocampa marthesia is associated with deciduous woodlands, particularly those containing oak (Quercus). Macrurocampa alpina occurs at higher elevations in western North America.

Primarily North America. Records include the United States, Canada, and Cuba (M. zayasi). The genus shows highest diversity in the eastern and southwestern United States.

Adults are active primarily from late spring through summer, with most records between May and August. Exact flight periods vary by species and latitude.

• Quercus - hostfor M. marthesia
• Andropogon - hostfor M. zayasi (blue moor-grass)

Larvae function as herbivores on woody and herbaceous plants. Their role in nutrient cycling and as prey for parasitoids and predators has not been quantified.

Macrurocampa marthesia is occasionally encountered by naturalists and photographers due to its distinctive appearance. No species are considered agricultural pests.

• HeterocampaAlso in subfamily Heterocampinae with similar forewing patterns; distinguished by genitalic structure and details of wing venation
• DatanaSimilar overall appearance and habitat use; Datana species often show more uniform coloration and have different larval habits (gregarious feeding)

• Notodontidae
• Heterocampinae
• North America
• prominent moths
• forest moths

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