Eastern-north-america
Guides
Diploperla
springflies
Diploperla is a genus of springflies (family Perlodidae) comprising five described species found in eastern North America. These stoneflies inhabit stream environments where their nymphs develop as predators in leaf packs and riffle areas. The genus exhibits univoltine life cycles with adult emergence occurring in spring.
Dolba hyloeus
Pawpaw Sphinx
Dolba hyloeus, the pawpaw sphinx, is a moth in the family Sphingidae. It is the only species in the genus Dolba. The species is found throughout the eastern United States, where it has been documented from Maine to Florida and west to Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Texas. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The common name reflects the larval association with pawpaw trees (Asimina species).
Dromogomphus spinosus
black-shouldered spinyleg
Dromogomphus spinosus, commonly known as the black-shouldered spinyleg, is a medium-sized dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. Adults average 64 mm in length. The species is distinguished by prominent black shoulder patches, long spines on the legs used for prey capture, and a clubbed abdomen with yellow lateral markings. It occurs across eastern North America from southern Manitoba to Florida.
Ectemnius maculosus
square-headed wasp
Ectemnius maculosus is a species of square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. Its native range encompasses much of the eastern United States and southeasternmost Canada. The species has been reported from outside its native range in North America, Europe, and northern Asia, though these populations may represent adventive introductions. Like other members of the genus Ectemnius, this species is a solitary wasp that provisions nests with prey for its larvae.
Efferia aestuans
Northeastern Hammertail
Efferia aestuans is a species of robber fly (family Asilidae) native to eastern North America. It is one of the more commonly encountered members of the genus Efferia in its range. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in body size, with females larger than males. Originally described by Linnaeus in 1763 as Asilus aestuans, it has undergone several taxonomic revisions before its current placement in Efferia.
Elachista irrorata
A small North American moth in the family Elachistidae, described by Braun in 1920. Adults have a wingspan of 8.2–11 mm and are active from March through October. The larvae are leaf miners that feed on two specific grass species: Glyceria striata and Agrostis perennans, with larval activity occurring in April and May. The species is recorded from 11 states/provinces in the eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Elaphria festivoides
festive midget
A small noctuid moth of eastern North America, distinguished from close relatives by genitalia and subtle wing pattern differences. Adults are active from spring through mid-summer with multiple generations. Larval host records exist for boxelder maple. The species was taxonomically revised in 2003, with Canadian populations reassigned to the newly described E. alapallida.
Enaphalodes cortiphagus
Enaphalodes cortiphagus is a species of longhorned beetle in the family Cerambycidae, described by Craighead in 1923. It belongs to the tribe Elaphidiini and is considered rare in collections. The species has been documented at select locations in eastern North America, including Trail of Tears State Park in Missouri, where it occurs in mesic forest habitats with eastern tree species.
Enchenopa on-juglans-nigra
Enchenopa on-juglans-nigra is a treehopper species in the family Membracidae, named for its association with black walnut (Juglans nigra). Like other members of the genus Enchenopa, it possesses a pronounced pronotal projection that extends over the body. The species was described based on specimens collected from black walnut, distinguishing it from related Enchenopa species that occur on different host plants. It belongs to a complex of morphologically similar species that have been differentiated primarily by host plant associations and subtle morphological differences.
Enicospilus americanus
A member of the Enicospilus americanus species complex in the family Ichneumonidae. This parasitoid wasp is one of seven species in the complex recognized from eastern North America. The species was originally described by Christ in 1791 and remains taxonomically valid.
Entypus fulvicornis
Entypus fulvicornis is a medium-sized to large spider wasp in the family Pompilidae, found in eastern North America. It is distinguished from congeners by its black or dark brown wings, in contrast to the orange wings typical of other Entypus species. The species is a specialist predator of spiders, particularly wolf spiders (Lycosidae) and nursery web spiders (Pisauridae), and is active in late summer and early autumn. It has been documented nectaring from a diverse array of flowering plants across eleven plant families.
Ephemera guttulata
Eastern Green Drake, Shad Fly, Coffinfly
Ephemera guttulata, commonly known as the eastern green drake, is a burrowing mayfly species native to eastern North America. It is one of the largest mayfly species in the region and is highly significant to fly fishing, where its emergence events are eagerly anticipated. The species has a fully aquatic larval stage, followed by a winged subimago (dun) stage and a short-lived sexually mature adult (imago) stage. Its conservation status is G5 (secure) according to NatureServe.
Epilachna borealis
Squash Lady Beetle, Squash beetle
Epilachna borealis, commonly known as the squash lady beetle or squash beetle, is a phytophagous lady beetle native to the eastern United States. Unlike most lady beetles that are predatory, this species feeds exclusively on cucurbitaceous plants. Adults and larvae cause significant damage to squash, pumpkins, and related crops by skeletonizing leaves and feeding on fruit rinds. The species is frequently mistaken for beneficial lady beetles or cucumber beetles due to its similar appearance.
Eratoneura emquu
Eratoneura emquu is a species of leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Typhlocybinae, described by Ross and DeLong in 1953. Like other members of its genus, it is a small plant-feeding insect that produces brochosomes—unique nanoparticles that coat its body surface. The species has been documented in several eastern U.S. states including Florida, Maine, Mississippi, and New Hampshire. Very few direct observations of this species have been recorded.
Eristalis saxorum
Blue-polished Drone Fly
Eristalis saxorum is an uncommon species of syrphid fly (hoverfly) native to eastern North America. Adults are flower visitors, obtaining nectar and pollen from blossoms. The species exhibits typical drone fly characteristics, including bee-mimicry and hovering flight behavior. Larvae are presumed to be of the rat-tailed type, though they have not been formally identified for this species. The species is active from mid-March through late October, with adults overwintering in sheltered locations such as cave entrances.
Eristalis transversa
Transverse-banded Drone Fly, Transverse Flower Fly
Eristalis transversa is a hoverfly in the family Syrphidae, first described by Wiedemann in 1830. Adults are bee mimics, displaying Batesian mimicry of stinging Hymenoptera. The species is common in eastern North America and is frequently observed visiting flowers for nectar and pollen. Like other Eristalis species, adults are important pollinators, though specific larval habitat for this species has not been documented.
Erythridula aspera
Erythridula aspera is a small leafhopper in the family Cicadellidae, subfamily Typhlocybinae. It belongs to a diverse genus of microleafhoppers characterized by their diminutive size and often colorful patterning. Records indicate presence in eastern North America including Florida, New Brunswick, and New Hampshire. Like other members of Typhlocybinae, it feeds on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts.
Erythrodiplax berenice
Seaside Dragonlet
Erythrodiplax berenice, the seaside dragonlet, is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is the only dragonfly in the western hemisphere capable of breeding in seawater, with nymphs tolerating salinities up to 260% of normal seawater concentration. The species inhabits coastal salt marshes, mangrove swamps, and alkaline lakes along the Atlantic coast of North America.
Ethmia longimaculella
streaked ethmia moth
Ethmia longimaculella, commonly known as the streaked ethmia moth, is a small moth in the family Depressariidae. The species is characterized by distinctive black longitudinal streaks on white forewings. It occurs across eastern North America from southern Canada to Texas, with two recognized subspecies showing different seasonal flight patterns. The larvae are specialized feeders on plants in the Boraginaceae family.
Euchlaena amoenaria
Deep Yellow Euchlaena Moth
Euchlaena amoenaria, commonly known as the Deep Yellow Euchlaena Moth, is a geometrid moth species native to eastern North America. Adults are medium-sized with a wingspan of 30–50 mm and exhibit bivoltine flight activity from May through September. The species is attracted to artificial light sources and has been documented in deciduous forest habitats. Larval host plants remain unknown, though related Euchlaena species feed on deciduous tree foliage.
Eudioctria albius
Eudioctria albius is a small robber fly species in the family Asilidae, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. It is one of four Eudioctria species occurring in eastern North America, with the genus being primarily western in distribution. The species belongs to the subfamily Stenopogoninae and is among the tiniest North American robber flies.
Eudioctria brevis
Eudioctria brevis is a small species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It is one of four Eudioctria species occurring in eastern North America, with the genus primarily distributed in western United States. The species is among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring 6–8 mm in length. It was described by Banks in 1917.
Eudioctria dissimilis
Eudioctria dissimilis is a species of robber fly in the subfamily Stenopogoninae, described by Adisoemarto and Wood in 1975. The genus Eudioctria comprises some of the smallest North American robber flies, with body lengths of 6–8 mm. Species in this genus are primarily western in distribution, though E. dissimilis is one of four eastern species.
Eudioctria nitida
Eudioctria nitida is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It is one of the smallest North American robber flies, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. The genus Eudioctria contains 14 species, with most distributed in the western United States; four species (including E. nitida) extend into eastern North America. Species identification within the genus requires examination of facial gibbosities and pollinosity patterns.
Eudioctria propinqua
Eudioctria propinqua is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, subfamily Stenopogoninae. It is among the smallest North American robber flies, measuring approximately 6–8 mm in length. The species occurs in eastern North America and is one of four Eudioctria species found in the eastern United States.
Eudonia strigalis
striped eudonia moth
Eudonia strigalis, known as the striped eudonia moth, is a small crambid moth described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1906. It occurs across eastern North America from Nova Scotia to Florida. The species shows latitudinal variation in adult activity patterns, with year-round flight in the south and a restricted season in northern populations.
Eudryas grata
Beautiful Wood-nymph
Eudryas grata, commonly known as the beautiful wood-nymph, is a moth species in the family Noctuidae. Adults are notable for their remarkable mimicry of bird droppings, a defensive adaptation that deters visually-oriented predators. The species ranges across eastern North America, with caterpillars feeding on several plant species in the grape family (Vitaceae).
Eumarozia malachitana
Sculptured Moth
Eumarozia malachitana, commonly known as the sculptured moth, is a small tortricid moth with a wingspan of 11.5–16 mm. It is widely distributed across eastern North America, with records extending from Ontario and Maine south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma. The species exhibits bivoltine adult activity, with flight periods in July and from September to October. Larvae are known to feed on a diverse range of host plants including woody species and some cultivated plants.
Eunemobius melodius
Melodious Ground Cricket
Eunemobius melodius is a small ground cricket native to eastern North America. It produces a distinctive, melodious trill that distinguishes it acoustically from congeners. The species inhabits moist ground-level vegetation and leaf litter in forested and semi-open habitats. It is one of several Eunemobius species whose identification relies heavily on male calling song characteristics.
Euparyphus stigmaticalis
Euparyphus stigmaticalis is a species of soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) described by Loew in 1866. It is known from eastern North America, where it occurs in specialized madicolous habitats—seepage areas on rock faces with thin films of flowing water. The species has been studied for its biology and immature stages, which are adapted to life in these thin water film environments.
Eupithecia strattonata
Spirea Looper
Eupithecia strattonata, commonly known as the Spirea Looper, is a small geometrid moth found in eastern North America. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 17 mm and are active during June and July. The species inhabits damp, open wetlands including marshes, bogs, and abandoned pastures. Larvae feed on Alnus (alders) and Spiraea species, with one documented instance of feeding on Actaea rubra fruit. The species has been documented visiting apple flowers, contributing to nocturnal pollination services.
Eupithecia swettii
Swett's Pug
Eupithecia swettii is a small geometrid moth commonly known as Swett's Pug. It belongs to the diverse 'pug' group within the genus Eupithecia, characterized by narrow wings and a distinctive resting posture. The species occurs in eastern North America and has been documented visiting apple flowers, contributing to nocturnal pollination services.
Euryurus evides
Euryurus evides is a North American millipede species in the family Xystodesmidae, order Polydesmida. It belongs to a genus of flat-backed millipedes characterized by their broad, flattened bodies and distinctive color patterns. The species was described by Bollman in 1887 and is part of the tribe Euryurini within the subfamily Rhysodesminae. It is among the more frequently observed millipedes in its range, with substantial occurrence records on community science platforms.
Evergestis rimosalis
cross-striped cabbageworm, Cross-striped Cabbageworm Moth
Evergestis rimosalis is a crambid moth commonly known as the cross-striped cabbageworm. It is recognized as a pest of brassica crops in eastern North America and serves as a host for the gregarious endoparasitoid wasp Cotesia orobenae. The species has been studied primarily in the context of biological control research.
Exyra fax
Pitcher Plant Moth, Epauletted Pitcher Plant Moth
Exyra fax, commonly known as the Pitcher Plant Moth, is a small noctuid moth specialized on pitcher plants. It occurs in eastern North America from Manitoba through the Great Lakes region to the Atlantic Coastal Plain, with a range extending from Nova Scotia south to Georgia. The species is in decline due to habitat disruption and is listed as threatened in Connecticut. Adults are active during summer months, and larvae are obligate feeders on Sarracenia purpurea.
Formica exsectoides
Allegheny mound ant
Formica exsectoides, commonly known as the Allegheny mound ant, is a large black ant species native to eastern North America. It constructs conspicuous dome-shaped mounds that can reach several feet in diameter and over two feet in height, with colonies containing hundreds of thousands of workers and multiple reproductive queens. The species is notable for its aggressive territorial defense, mechanical strength (neck joints withstand pressures up to 5,000 times body weight), and complex ecological relationships including associations with treehoppers and use of its mounds by other animals.
Formica subsericea
silky field ant, black field ant
Formica subsericea is a medium-sized ant species native to eastern North America, commonly known as the silky field ant or black field ant. Workers are noted for their exceptional speed and timid behavior. The species is frequently enslaved by Polyergus slave-making ants and has been observed serving as a host for inquiline fly larvae. Nuptial flights occur in mid to late summer.
Gabara subnivosella
wet sand savannah moth, snowy gabara
Gabara subnivosella is a small moth in the family Erebidae, first described by Francis Walker in 1866. It is commonly known as the wet sand savannah moth or snowy gabara. The species has a wingspan of approximately 25 mm and is found in eastern North America.
Galasa nigrinodis
Boxwood Leaftier Moth, Boxwood Webworm
A small pyralid moth native to eastern North America, commonly known as the boxwood leaftier moth or boxwood webworm. The species is specialized on Buxus (boxwood) as a larval host. Larvae construct shelters by tying together dead leaves with silk, feeding within these protective webs. Adults are active from early summer through early autumn.
Gasteruption barnstoni
Carrot wasp
Gasteruption barnstoni is a species of parasitoid wasp in the family Gasteruptiidae, commonly known as carrot wasps. The species exhibits the family's characteristic elongated 'neck' between head and thorax, enlarged hind tibiae, and long ovipositor in females. As a parasitoid of solitary bees, the female uses her ovipositor to deposit eggs in host nests. The species belongs to a genus of approximately 500 species worldwide, with at least 15 species documented in North America.
Gaurotes cyanipennis
Gaurotes cyanipennis is a species of longhorn beetle in the family Cerambycidae, described by Thomas Say in 1824. It belongs to the subfamily Lepturinae and tribe Rhagiini. The species is found in eastern North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits metallic coloration typical of many rhagiine beetles.
Geina periscelidactylus
grape plume moth, Grape and Sheppard's Plume Moths
Geina periscelidactylus, commonly known as the grape plume moth, is a small moth in the family Pterophoridae found in eastern North America. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 16 mm and are active during summer months. The larvae are specialist feeders on grape (Vitis) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus), constructing webs among young foliage.
Gelechia albisparsella
Gelechia albisparsella is a small gelechiid moth native to eastern and central North America. Adults are characterized by dark brown forewings with faint ochreous suffusion and sparse white scaling concentrated near the costal cilia. The larvae are specialized leaf skeletonizers of American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). Despite being described in 1872, the species remains poorly documented beyond its original description and scattered collection records.
Geolycosa turricola
turret spider, burrowing wolf spider
Geolycosa turricola is a burrowing wolf spider (family Lycosidae) native to the eastern United States, ranging as far west as Ohio. This species constructs deep, silk-lined burrows in sandy soils, often with a distinctive turret of silk and debris at the entrance. It exhibits an obligate burrowing lifestyle with a two-year life cycle and has been documented showing high frequencies of ballooning behavior—aerial dispersal via silk threads—despite occupying relatively stable sand dune habitats. Spiderlings display subsocial organization with prolonged mutual tolerance within broods, facilitated primarily by chemical communication.
Geophilus varians
Geophilus varians is a small soil centipede native to eastern North America. It is characterized by its variable coloration, ranging from light faded orange to yellow or whitish yellow, with a distinctly brighter head. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in leg pair counts, with males possessing 53–59 pairs and females 55–61 pairs. It reaches maximum lengths of 40 mm, though typically averages 30–35 mm.
Glycobius
sugar maple borer
Glycobius is a monotypic genus of longhorned beetles (family Cerambycidae) containing the single species Glycobius speciosus, commonly known as the sugar maple borer. The species is native to eastern North America and is a specialist wood-borer whose larvae feed on sugar maple (Acer saccharum). Adults are active in spring and early summer.
Glyptocera consobrinella
Viburnum Glyptocera Moth
A small snout moth in the family Pyralidae, native to eastern North America. The common name references its association with Viburnum plants. Adults are active during summer months. The species was originally described as Nephopterix consobrinella by Zeller in 1872 before being transferred to Glyptocera.
Glyptoscelis pubescens
hairy leaf beetle, pine chrysomelid
Glyptoscelis pubescens is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the hairy leaf beetle or pine chrysomelid. It is distributed across eastern North America, with records extending into Canada. The species is recognized as a potential pest of pine trees. Parasitoid wasps including Eupelmus sp. and Microctonus glyptosceli are known to attack this beetle.
Gnorimella
maculate flower scarab
Gnorimella is a monotypic genus of scarab beetles in the family Scarabaeidae, containing the single species Gnorimella maculosa. This uncommon beetle is notable for its spotted patterning and association with deciduous woodland habitats in eastern North America. The genus was established by Casey in 1915 and remains one of the more rarely encountered cetoniine scarabs in its range.
Gnorimoschema busckiella
Gnorimoschema busckiella is a small gelechiid moth described by William D. Kearfott in 1903. It is known from limited records in the northeastern and midwestern United States. The species has a distinctive wing pattern created by an unusual scale arrangement that produces a bronze-brown color sprinkled with white. Its larvae feed on Aster patens, a species of aster native to eastern North America.