Ozamia clarefacta

Distinguished from related Ozamia species by the combination of gray forewings with darker markings and pearly white hindwings with narrow dark costal line. Larval coloration differs between first and subsequent generations, with first-generation larvae darkening to dull black while later generations remain light pink.

Adults have gray forewings with darker markings and pearly white hindwings with a narrow dark costal line. Larvae vary by generation: first-generation young larvae are somewhat white, later turning pink or wine colored, and becoming dull black in final instars. Larvae of subsequent generations remain light pink and do not darken when fully grown.

Associated with Opuntia cactus stands in arid and semi-arid regions.

Found in Texas (United States) and Mexico.

Multiple generations per year, with up to five generations reported annually. Activity patterns likely correspond to host plant flowering and fruiting cycles.

Larvae feed on Opuntia species, specifically documented on Opuntia lindheimeri and Opuntia cacanapa. They consume flowers and fruit of the host plant.

• Opuntia lindheimeri - larval food plantflowers and fruit consumed
• Opuntia cacanapa - larval food plantflowers and fruit consumed

Eggs laid on host Opuntia. Larvae feed on flowers and fruit, with coloration varying by generation. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among rubbish and soil, or occasionally in dead flower heads. Up to five generations per year.

Herbivore specializing on Opuntia cacti; may contribute to pollination through flower visitation and serve as prey for predators in cactus-associated food webs.

Potential pest of cultivated Opuntia species grown for fruit (tunas) or as ornamental plants. No documented economic impact quantified.

• Ozamia fuscomaculellaOriginally described as a subspecies of this taxon; separation requires examination of wing pattern details and genitalia

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon