Cankerworm
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Paleacrita
spring cankerworm moths
Paleacrita is a genus of geometer moths (Geometridae) containing at least three described species, including the widespread spring cankerworm (Paleacrita vernata). The genus was established by Riley in 1876. Species in this genus are notable for having flightless females in at least some species, a trait that influences their dispersal biology and seasonal activity patterns.
Paleacrita vernata
Spring Cankerworm, Spring Cankerworm Moth
Paleacrita vernata is a geometrid moth known as the spring cankerworm. Males have functional wings and fly from February to late May, while females are wingless and climb tree trunks to lay eggs. The larvae are defoliators of deciduous trees and shrubs, with documented feeding on Acer, Ulmus, Betula, Prunus, and Quercus species. The species has been observed using flax as a secondary host, indicating broader host flexibility than previously recognized.