Langessa

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Pyraloidea
Family: Crambidae
Subfamily: Acentropinae
Tribe: Nymphulini
Genus: Langessa

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Langessa: /læŋˈɡɛsə/

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Summary

Langessa is a genus of moths in the family Crambidae, comprising only one species, Langessa nomophilalis, known as the black langessa moth, found in North America, characterized by distinct wing coloration and a larvae diet of aquatic plants.

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan of 20–22 mm; forewings are brown with a bronzy reflection; hindwings are grey brown with three black patches on the inner margin and two faint white submarginal lines.

Identification Tips

Look for the brown forewings with a bronzy reflection and the distinct grey brown hindwings featuring black patches and white submarginal lines.

Habitat

Primarily aquatic habitats, as larvae feed on aquatic plants.

Distribution

Recorded from Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina, North America.

Diet

Larvae feed on aquatic plants.

Ecosystem Role

Contributes to the aquatic ecosystem food web as a herbivorous larval stage.