Notodontidae
Guides
Afilia
Afilia is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, first described by William Schaus in 1901. The genus belongs to the subfamily Hapigiinae and contains three recognized species: Afilia oslari, A. cinerea, and A. purulha. These moths are part of the diverse notodontid fauna, commonly known as prominent moths. The genus has been documented through 198 iNaturalist observations, indicating some level of field detectability.
Americerura scitiscripta
black-etched prominent, Black-etched Prominent Moth
Americerura scitiscripta, commonly known as the black-etched prominent moth, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was originally described in the genera Cerura and Tecmessa before being placed in Americerura, a genus now restricted to the New World. The species is broadly distributed across North America, with adults active from early spring through autumn depending on latitude.
Astiptodonta
Astiptodonta is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, containing at least two described species. The genus was established by Miller & Franclemont in 2021. Species in this genus occur in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The genus belongs to the subfamily Heterocampinae within the superfamily Noctuoidea.
Cargida
Cargida is a monotypic moth genus in the family Notodontidae, established by William Schaus in 1901. It contains a single species, Cargida pyrrha, described by Herbert Druce in 1898. The genus is endemic to Mexico.
Caribbeana bichorda
Caribbeana bichorda is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by Hampson in 1901. It belongs to a genus endemic to the Caribbean region. The species is documented from limited observations, with iNaturalist records indicating it is rarely encountered. As a member of the Heterocampinae subfamily, it shares morphological traits with related prominents but remains poorly studied in terms of natural history.
Cecrita
prominent moths
Cecrita is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Francis Walker in 1855. The genus contains approximately eight described species distributed across North, Central, and South America. These moths are part of the subfamily Heterocampinae. Two species, Cecrita guttivitta (saddled prominent) and Cecrita biundata (wavy-lined heterocampa), are relatively well-known and frequently encountered.
Cecrita cubana
Cecrita cubana is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Grote in 1866. It belongs to the genus Cecrita, a group of North American moths whose larvae are known as "prominents" due to their characteristic humps or projections. The species epithet "cubana" suggests a possible Caribbean association, though the species occurs in North America. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light.
Cecrita guttivitta
Saddled Prominent
Cecrita guttivitta, commonly known as the Saddled Prominent, is a moth in the family Notodontidae. It is distributed across eastern North America and has been documented in considerable numbers on iNaturalist. The species was described by Walker in 1855. Its taxonomic placement has been subject to some uncertainty, with some sources listing it under the genus Disphragis.
Cecrita lunata
Cecrita lunata is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, the prominents. It was first described by Henry Edwards in 1884 and is found in the western United States and Mexico. The species was transferred from the genus Heterocampa to Cecrita in 2021 based on published research. It has been assigned Hodges number 7993 in the North American moth numbering system.
Clostera
Clostera is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Pygaerinae, containing approximately 30 described species distributed across the Holarctic and Oriental regions. Multiple species, including C. anachoreta, C. anastomosis, C. fulgurita, and C. cupreata, are recognized as significant defoliators of poplar (Populus) trees in forestry contexts across China, India, Europe, and Japan. The genus has been extensively studied for its economic impact and as a target for biological control and Bt toxin research.
Clostera jocosa
Clostera jocosa is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Edwards in 1886. It belongs to the genus Clostera, which comprises moths commonly known as "chocolate-tip" or "prominent" moths due to their characteristic wing patterns. The species is documented in the Catalogue of Life and has very few observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it may be rare, underreported, or restricted in range. Like other members of its genus, it is presumed to have larvae that feed on willow or poplar (Salicaceae), though specific host records for this species have not been confirmed.
Clostera strigosa
striped chocolate-tip, drab tent-maker moth
Clostera strigosa is a moth species in the family Notodontidae (the prominents), described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1882. It is known by two common names: the striped chocolate-tip and the drab tent-maker moth. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and the United States (Vermont). The specific epithet 'strigosa' refers to the streaked or striped appearance typical of this species.
Coelodasys
prominent moths
Coelodasys is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Packard in 1864. The genus contains at least four described species distributed in North America. Species include the plain schizura (Coelodasys apicalis) and the unicorn prominent (Coelodasys unicornis). The genus is classified within the subfamily Heterocampinae.
Coelodasys conspecta
Coelodasys conspecta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Edwards in 1875. It belongs to the subfamily Heterocampinae, a group known for caterpillars with distinctive morphological adaptations. The species has been documented through approximately 70 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists. As with many Notodontidae, the larval stage is likely the most frequently observed life stage.
Crinodes
Crinodes is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Herrich-Schäffer in 1855. The genus is placed in the subfamily Dudusinae. At least one species, Crinodes besckei, has been studied for larval mouthpart functional morphology. The genus contains multiple species with records spanning the Americas.
Dasylophia anguina
black-spotted prominent
Dasylophia anguina, the black-spotted prominent, is a sexually dimorphic moth in the family Notodontidae. Males display black streaks on the forewing with white hindwings, while females show a yellow-brown basal patch with gray hindwings. The species exhibits geographic variation in voltinism, with one brood in northern regions and two or more in the south.
Dasylophia melanopa
Dasylophia melanopa is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Barnes in 1901. The species belongs to the subfamily Nystaleinae and is native to North America. It is represented by 26 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists. Taxonomic status varies between sources, with Catalogue of Life treating it as accepted while GBIF lists it as a synonym of Dasylophia seriata.
Dasylophia saturata
Dasylophia saturata is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Barnes in 1901. It belongs to the subfamily Nystaleinae, a group of prominent moths. The genus Dasylophia is characterized by distinctive morphological features including prominent tufts and modified setae on the body. As with other notodontid moths, adults are nocturnal and larvae feed on woody plants.
Datana
Datana is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, erected by Francis Walker in 1855. The genus comprises approximately 13 described species distributed across North America. Larvae of Datana species are known defoliators of hardwood trees and are among the common late-season defoliators of southern U.S. forests. Several species are notable agricultural and ornamental pests, particularly on pecan and walnut trees.
Datana angusii
Angus' Datana Moth, Angus's datana moth
Datana angusii is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Grote and Robinson in 1866. It occurs in North America, with records from the United States including Vermont. The species is part of a genus whose larvae are known as significant defoliators of hardwood trees. The MONA (Hodges) number for this species is 7903.
Datana contracta
Contracted Datana Moth
Datana contracta, commonly known as the contracted datana, is a moth species in the family Notodontidae. It is native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Maine to Florida and westward to Arkansas and Wisconsin. The species has a wingspan of 35–50 mm. Larvae feed on foliage of various woody plants including blueberries, hickories, oaks, sycamore, and witch-hazel.
Datana diffidens
Datana diffidens is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1917. It is native to North America and is one of approximately ten species in the genus Datana found on the continent. Like other members of its genus, the larvae are likely folivorous, though specific host plant associations for this species remain poorly documented. The species has been recorded in iNaturalist with over 340 observations, suggesting it is encountered with some regularity by naturalists.
Datana drexelii-major
Datana drexelii-major is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. The genus Datana contains multiple species of late-season defoliators that feed on hardwood trees. Larvae of Datana species are known to be gregarious feeders and can cause localized defoliation, though typically without significant long-term impacts to tree health. The specific taxonomic status and distinguishing features of D. drexelii-major relative to other Datana species require further clarification.
Datana integerrima
Walnut Caterpillar Moth
Datana integerrima, commonly known as the walnut caterpillar moth, is a North American species in the family Notodontidae. The adult moths have a wingspan of 35–50 mm and are active from May to August. The larvae are notable defoliators of walnut, hickory, and other hardwood trees, feeding gregariously in large groups. While capable of causing significant defoliation, single-season outbreaks rarely cause lasting damage to healthy trees.
Datana major
azalea caterpillar, major datana
Datana major is a moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the azalea caterpillar or major datana. The species ranges across the eastern and central United States, from Maryland south to Florida and west to Kansas and Arkansas. Adults are active from June to August, with one generation per year in most of the range and a partial second generation in southern areas. The larvae are notable pests of azaleas and related ornamental plants.
Datana modesta
Datana modesta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by William Beutenmüller in 1890. It is native to North America and belongs to a genus whose larvae are known as generalist feeders on woody plants. The species is part of a group of late-season defoliators that typically cause minor, aesthetic damage rather than significant tree health impacts.
Datana neomexicana
Datana neomexicana is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Doll in 1911. It occurs in North America and is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7913. Like other members of the genus Datana, it is a late-season defoliator whose larvae feed on tree foliage. The species is part of a group of hardwood defoliators that typically cause minor, aesthetic damage rather than significant tree health impacts.
Datana perfusa
Large Datana
Datana perfusa is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the Large Datana. Described by Harrison Gray Dyar in 1923, this moth is part of a genus whose larvae are well-known defoliators of hardwood trees. The genus Datana includes several species whose caterpillars feed gregariously and are frequently documented as late-season defoliators of oaks and other hardwoods. While specific details for D. perfusa are limited, the genus is characterized by distinctive caterpillars with warning coloration and defensive behaviors.
Datana perspicua
spotted datana, spotted datana moth
Datana perspicua, the spotted datana, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote and Coleman Townsend Robinson in 1865. The species is found in North America and has been assigned MONA/Hodges number 7908. Three subspecies are recognized: D. p. mesillae, D. p. opposita, and the nominate D. p. perspicua.
Datana robusta
annual buttonweed, robust datana moth
Datana robusta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Herman Strecker in 1878. It is native to North America and is commonly known as the annual buttonweed or robust datana moth. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7909. Like other members of the genus Datana, it is a late-season defoliator of hardwood trees.
Dicranurinae
Dicranurinae is a subfamily of prominent moths within the family Notodontidae, order Lepidoptera. The subfamily was established by Duponchel in 1845. Members are characterized by distinctive larval morphology, including modified head structures and often prominent anal processes. The group is primarily distributed in the Palearctic and Oriental regions, with some representation in other biogeographic realms.
Dudusinae
Dudusinae is a subfamily of moths within the family Notodontidae (prominent moths), established by Matsumura in 1929. Members of this subfamily are primarily distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, with significant diversity in Southeast Asia and surrounding areas. The subfamily is characterized by specific morphological features of the adult moths, particularly in wing venation and genitalia structure.
Elasmia mandela
Elasmia mandela is a moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Herbert Druce in 1887. The species occurs in Mexico, Costa Rica, Texas, and Oklahoma. Adults are active from April to early October. Two subspecies are recognized: the nominate form in Mexico and Costa Rica, and E. m. santaana in Texas, Oklahoma, and probably Mexico.
Elasmia mandela santaana
Elasmia mandela santaana is a subspecies of moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Metzler and Knudson in 2011. It belongs to the genus Elasmia, a group of prominent moths within the subfamily Nystaleinae. The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within the broader species E. mandela. Records indicate presence in both Middle America and North America.
Ellida caniplaga
Linden Prominent, linden prominent moth
Ellida caniplaga, the linden prominent moth, is a North American notodontid moth distributed across eastern and central United States and Canada. Adults fly from April through September with two generations annually in southern populations. The species is strongly associated with Tilia (linden/basswood) trees, upon which larvae feed.
Elymiotis
Elymiotis is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Nystaleinae. The genus was established by Francis Walker in 1857 and contains two described species: E. notodontoides and E. tlotzin. Members of this genus are found in the Neotropical region. As part of the prominent moth family Notodontidae, these moths are characterized by their distinctive resting posture and often cryptic coloration.
Euhyparpax
Euhyparpax is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, erected by Edna Libby Beutenmüller in 1893. The genus contains two described species: Euhyparpax amatame (Dyar, 1916) and Euhyparpax rosea Beutenmüller, 1893. These moths belong to the subfamily Heterocampinae, commonly known as prominents. The genus is rarely encountered, with only two observations documented on iNaturalist.
Furcula
prominent moths
Furcula is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Cerurinae. The genus contains multiple species distributed across the Holarctic region. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Larvae are known for their distinctive forked posterior structure, which gives the genus its name (Latin for 'little fork').
Furcula borealis
White Furcula Moth
Furcula borealis, commonly known as the white furcula moth, is a North American notodontid moth with a wingspan of 31–42 mm. Adults are active from April to August across a broad range extending from New Hampshire to Florida and westward to Texas, Colorado, and South Dakota. The larvae feed on woody plants including cherry, willow, and poplar species.
Furcula gigans
Furcula gigans is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by McDunnough in 1922. The species has been recorded across central and western Canada and the northeastern United States. Taxonomic status varies by source: Catalogue of Life treats it as accepted, while GBIF lists it as a synonym of Furcula occidentalis. Like other members of the genus Furcula, it belongs to the prominent moth group characterized by distinctive larval morphology including a forked tail-like structure.
Furcula modesta
Modest Furcula Moth, Modest Furcula, Modest Kitten
Furcula modesta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Hudson in 1891. The species is known by the common names modest furcula or modest kitten. It is distributed across North America, with confirmed records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and the United States (Vermont). As a member of the genus Furcula, it belongs to a group of moths whose caterpillars are commonly known as 'kittens' due to their distinctive forked defensive posture.
Furcula nivea
Furcula nivea is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by Berthold Neumoegen in 1891. It is found in North America and is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7938. The species includes three recognized subspecies: F. n. nivea, F. n. meridionalis, and F. n. niveata.
Furcula occidentalis
Western Furcula Moth, Double-lined Furcula, Willow Kitten
Furcula occidentalis is a notodontid moth known by several common names including western furcula moth, double-lined furcula, and willow kitten. The species exhibits a broad transcontinental distribution across North America, from the Yukon to the Atlantic coast. Adults are active from spring through summer with one to two generations annually. The larvae feed primarily on willow (Salix) species and occasionally on poplar (Populus), giving rise to the 'willow kitten' common name.
Furcula scolopendrina
zigzag furcula moth, poplar kitten moth
Furcula scolopendrina is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the zigzag furcula moth or poplar kitten moth. It was described by Jean Baptiste Boisduval in 1869 and is found in North America. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7940.
Furcula wileyi
Furcula wileyi is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by Dyar in 1922. The genus Furcula belongs to the subfamily Cerurinae, a group of prominent moths known for their distinctive larval morphology. As a member of the Noctuoidea superfamily, this species exhibits the typical characteristics of owlet moths. Very few observations of this species have been recorded, with only 16 documented observations on iNaturalist, suggesting it is either rare, cryptic, or restricted in distribution.
Gluphisia
Gluphisia is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, first described by Boisduval in 1828. Species in this genus are commonly referred to as 'prominent moths' and are attracted to artificial light sources, including blacklights used in moth surveys. The genus includes six recognized species distributed across North America and Eurasia.
Gluphisia avimacula
Four-spotted Gluphisia Moth, four-spotted gluphisium, avimacula pebble
Gluphisia avimacula is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by George H. Hudson in 1891. It is distributed across North America, with confirmed records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and the United States (Vermont). The species is attracted to ultraviolet light sources and is active during summer months. Like other members of the genus Gluphisia, it is a nocturnal moth with distinctive wing patterning.
Gluphisia septentrionis
Common Gluphisia Moth
Gluphisia septentrionis is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the Common Gluphisia Moth. It is a North American species with a broad distribution across northern and central regions of the continent. The species is frequently attracted to ultraviolet light sources, making it a common subject of observation during moth-watching events. It is one of the more frequently observed members of its genus, with substantial occurrence records in citizen science databases.
Gluphisia severa
Banded Pebble Moth
Gluphisia severa is a North American moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the banded pebble moth. First described by Henry Edwards in 1886, it is one of approximately 3,800 species of prominent moths. The species has been documented through citizen science platforms with over 475 observations, indicating it is regularly encountered by observers. Like other members of the genus Gluphisia, it is nocturnal and attracted to artificial light sources.
Gluphisia wrightii
Gluphisia wrightii is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Henry Edwards in 1886. It is found in North America and has been assigned the MONA/Hodges number 7932. The species belongs to the genus Gluphisia, which includes several North American moth species commonly referred to as 'prominents' due to the tufted projections on their caterpillars.
Heterocampa
prominent moths
Heterocampa is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae containing approximately 18 described species. Species occur in North, Central, and South America. The genus has undergone taxonomic revision; research published in 2021 resulted in some species being transferred to the genera Cecrita, Macrurocampa, and Rifargia. Several species are forest defoliators, with Heterocampa guttivitta (saddled prominent) and H. manteo (variable oakleaf caterpillar) being among the better studied due to their economic and ecological significance.
Heterocampa amanda
Heterocampa amanda is a moth in the family Notodontidae (the prominents), described by William Barnes and Arthur Ward Lindsey in 1921. It is native to North America and assigned MONA/Hodges number 7992. The species belongs to a genus whose larvae feed on various hardwood trees.
Heterocampa astarte
astarte prominent moth
Heterocampa astarte is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by Edward Doubleday in 1841. It is found in North America and is known to be a host for the thread-waisted wasp Ammophila procera, which provisions its nests with paralyzed caterpillars of this species. The species has been recorded with the MONA/Hodges number 7977.
Heterocampa astartoides
Heterocampa astartoides is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. First described by Foster Hendrickson Benjamin in 1932, this North American species is known to be a host for the thread-waisted wasp Ammophila procera. It is recorded under MONA/Hodges number 7978.
Heterocampa averna
Heterocampa averna is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1910. The species is known from North America and has been assigned the MONA/Hodges number 7991. As a member of the genus Heterocampa, it belongs to a group of moths whose larvae are frequently parasitized by solitary wasps.
Heterocampa obliqua
oblique heterocampa, oblique prominent
Heterocampa obliqua is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864. It is found throughout North America. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7983. Larvae have been subjects of morphological study comparing their mouthpart structure and feeding behaviors with other notodontid species.
Heterocampa pulverea
Eastern White-blotched Prominent
Heterocampa pulverea is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the Eastern White-blotched Prominent. It occurs in oak forests across eastern North America. The species was formerly treated as a subspecies of Heterocampa umbrata but is now recognized as distinct.
Heterocampa rufinans
Heterocampa rufinans is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Dyar in 1921. It belongs to a genus whose caterpillars serve as hosts for certain parasitoid wasps. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its biology and appearance remain sparse in available sources.
Heterocampa secessionis
Heterocampa secessionis is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Foster Hendrickson Benjamin in 1932. It belongs to a genus of moths whose caterpillars are known to feed on oak and other hardwood foliage. The species is recorded from North America, with the MONA (Moths of North America) or Hodges number 7981 assigned to it.
Heterocampa umbrata
white-blotched heterocampa, white-blotched prominent
Heterocampa umbrata is a moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Francis Walker in 1855. It is commonly known as the white-blotched heterocampa or white-blotched prominent. The species has a restricted distribution in the southeastern United States, occurring in Florida and coastal Georgia. The MONA or Hodges number for this species is 7990.
Heterocampinae
prominent moths
Heterocampinae is a subfamily of prominent moths within the family Notodontidae. It contains at least 60 described species in North America, with additional species in other regions. The group includes economically and ecologically significant genera such as Heterocampa, Schizura, and Lochmaeus. Adults are nocturnal and larvae often exhibit distinctive defensive postures.
Hyparpax aurora
Pink Prominent
Hyparpax aurora, commonly known as the pink prominent, is a moth in the family Notodontidae native to eastern North America. First described by James Edward Smith in 1797, this species is notable for its distinctive pink and yellow coloration. It is listed as a species of special concern in Connecticut, indicating potential conservation vulnerability in parts of its range.
Hyparpax perophoroides
red-lined yellow prominent, lilac moth
Hyparpax perophoroides is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It is commonly known as the red-lined yellow prominent or lilac moth. The species was first described by Strecker in 1876 and is found in North America. It is assigned MONA/Hodges number 8026.
Hyparpax venus
Venus Moth
Hyparpax venus is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Berthold Neumoegen in 1892. It is native to North America and belongs to the prominent moth group, which are characterized by their distinctive resting postures and often tufted or hairy bodies. The species name 'venus' references the Roman goddess of beauty, a common naming convention in this genus.
Ianassa coloradensis
Ianassa coloradensis is a moth species in the family Notodontidae (prominent moths), first described by Edwards in 1885. It belongs to the subfamily Heterocampinae, a group of moths whose larvae often exhibit distinctive defensive postures and feeding habits on woody plants. The species has been documented in 56 iNaturalist observations, suggesting it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists. As a member of Notodontidae, it is part of a diverse family of moths found primarily in forested and wooded habitats.
Ianassa lignicolor
White-streaked Prominent, white-streaked prominent moth, lacecapped caterpillar
A medium-sized moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the White-streaked Prominent or lacecapped caterpillar. Adults display distinctive white streaking on the forewings. The species is widespread in eastern North America, with larvae recognized by their unique 'lace cap' appearance. The species has been subject to taxonomic revision, formerly placed in the genus Oligocentria.
Ianassa wagneri
Ianassa wagneri is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Heterocampinae. The species was described by Miller and Franclemont in 2021. It belongs to the genus Ianassa, a group of prominent moths within the superfamily Noctuoidea. Very little specific information has been published about this recently described species.
Litodonta contrasta
Litodonta contrasta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Barnes and McDunnough in 1910. It belongs to a small genus of North American moths. The species name 'contrast' likely refers to distinct pattern elements on the wings. Like other notodontids, adults are nocturnal and larvae are external feeders on woody plants.
Lochmaeus
Lochmaeus is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, first described by Edward Doubleday in 1841. The genus contains at least two species, including L. manteo and L. bilineata. Larvae are late-season defoliators of hardwood trees, with outbreaks occasionally producing conspicuous damage and abundant frass. Despite visible defoliation, impacts to tree health are generally minor.
Lochmaeus bilineata
Double-lined Prominent, double-lined prominent moth
Lochmaeus bilineata, commonly known as the double-lined prominent moth, is a notodontid moth found across eastern North America. Adults are active from spring through fall depending on latitude, with a wingspan of 32–40 mm. The larvae feed on the foliage of several hardwood tree genera including Fagus, Quercus, Tilia, Betula, and Ulmus. As a late-season defoliator, it typically causes minor, localized damage that does not threaten overall tree health.
Lochmaeus manteo
Variable Oakleaf Caterpillar Moth
Lochmaeus manteo is a moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the variable oakleaf caterpillar moth. It occurs in eastern North America, where adults are active from April through October. The species is a late-season defoliator of deciduous trees, with larvae feeding primarily on Quercus (oak) species. While larval feeding can cause noticeable canopy damage and produce abundant frass, single defoliation events rarely cause significant long-term harm to tree health.
Macrurocampa
mottled prominent (for M. marthesia), blue moor-grass moth (for M. zayasi)
Macrurocampa is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Heterocampinae. It was erected by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1904 and contains nine recognized species. The genus is primarily distributed in North America, with one species (M. zayasi) recorded from Cuba.
Macrurocampa gigantea
Macrurocampa gigantea is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was first described by William Barnes and Foster Hendrickson Benjamin in 1924. The species was formerly classified under the genus Litodonta but was transferred to Macrurocampa based on research published in 2021. It is known from North America and has been assigned MONA/Hodges number 7972.
Macrurocampa marthesia
Mottled Prominent
Macrurocampa marthesia, commonly known as the Mottled Prominent, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. First described by Pieter Cramer in 1780, this species occurs across North America with documented records from Canada and the United States. The species is assigned Hodges number 7975 in the North American moth numbering system. It belongs to the subfamily Heterocampinae within the superfamily Noctuoidea.
Misogada
drab prominent
Misogada is a monotypic moth genus in the family Notodontidae, containing a single species, Misogada unicolor. The genus was erected by Francis Walker in 1865. Its sole species, commonly known as the drab prominent, was described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864 and is distributed across eastern and central North America.
Nadata
Nadata is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Francis Walker in 1855. The genus contains at least two North American species: Nadata gibbosa and Nadata oregonensis. These moths are notable as hosts for certain parasitoid wasps, particularly thread-waisted wasps in the genus Ammophila.
Nadata anastomosa
Nadata anastomosa is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described in 2018. It belongs to a genus whose caterpillars serve as hosts for certain parasitoid wasps. The species is part of the diverse Noctuoidea superfamily and has been documented through a limited number of observations.
Nerice bidentata
Double-toothed Prominent, base-streaked prominent moth, double-toothed prominent moth
Nerice bidentata is a North American moth in the family Notodontidae. Adults are active in spring and summer, with a single generation per year in northern populations. The species is notable for its larvae, which feed on elm leaves and exhibit camouflage resembling leaf edges.
Notela
Notela is a monotypic genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, established by William Schaus in 1901. It contains a single species, Notela jaliscana, which occurs in North America. The genus is classified within the subfamily Nystaleinae. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7960.
Notodonta
prominent moths
Notodonta is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Ferdinand Ochsenheimer in 1810. Species within this genus are distributed across the Palearctic region, with multiple species occurring in Europe and Asia. Several species have been subjects of genomic research through the Darwin Tree of Life Project, including the iron prominent (N. dromedarius) and pebble prominent (N. ziczac). The genus exhibits variation in brood number across latitudes, with double-brooded populations in southern regions and single-brooded populations in northern areas.
Notodonta manitou
Cryptic Prominent
Notodonta manitou, commonly known as the Cryptic Prominent, is a moth species in the family Notodontidae described by Neumoegen and Dyar in 1893. It belongs to the genus Notodonta, a group of prominent moths characterized by their distinctive resting posture and often cryptic coloration. The species epithet "manitou" refers to the spiritual or supernatural beings in Algonquian Native American mythology, suggesting the species may have been described from specimens collected in a region associated with these cultures. As with other members of the Notodontidae family, the larvae likely feed on deciduous tree foliage.
Notodonta pacifica
Pacific Prominent Moth
Notodonta pacifica is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was first described by Hans Hermann Behr in 1892. The species is found in North America and is known by the common name Pacific Prominent Moth. Like other members of its genus, it belongs to a group of moths characterized by distinctive projections or tufts on their bodies.
Notodonta torva
Large Dark Prominent, Northern Finned Prominent
Notodonta torva is a moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Jacob Hübner in 1803. It is widespread across Europe and extends eastward through Asia to China, Korea, and Japan, with rare occurrences as an immigrant to Great Britain. The species is bivoltine in western Europe, producing two generations per year. Larvae feed primarily on poplar and willow species.
Nystalea eutalanta
Dyar's tropical prominent moth
Nystalea eutalanta is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1921. It occurs in North America and belongs to the subfamily Nystaleinae. The species is represented by approximately 40 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered infrequently relative to more common moth species.
Nystalea indiana
Grote's tropical prominent moth
Nystalea indiana is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1884. The species is commonly known as Grote's tropical prominent moth. It is found in North America.
Oedemasia
Oedemasia is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, established by Packard in 1864. The genus contains at least four described species distributed mainly in North America. Some species have well-known common names referring to larval characteristics, such as the red-humped caterpillar (Oedemasia concinna). The genus is classified within the subfamily Heterocampinae.
Oedemasia leptinoides
black-blotched schizura, black-blotched prominent
Oedemasia leptinoides is a moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1864. It was transferred from the genus Schizura to Oedemasia in 2021 based on molecular and morphological research. The species is known for caterpillars that engage in girdling behavior on host plants. It is found in North America.
Oedemasia salicis
Western Red-Humped Caterpillar Moth
Oedemasia salicis is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. The common name refers to the distinctive red hump on its caterpillar. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The species is associated with willow and poplar host plants.
Paraeschra
Paraeschra is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, described in 2018 by Miller & Franclemont. It belongs to the subfamily Notodontinae, a group commonly known as prominent moths. The genus was established relatively recently in lepidopteran taxonomy, suggesting it was separated from related genera based on morphological or molecular evidence. As a notodontid genus, its members likely share characteristics with other prominent moths, though species-specific details remain limited in available sources.
Paraeschra georgica
Georgian Prominent
Paraeschra georgica, commonly known as the Georgian Prominent, is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae. It was first described by Herrich-Schäffer in 1855 under the basionym Notodonta georgica. The species belongs to the subfamily Notodontinae, a group commonly referred to as prominent moths due to their characteristic resting posture with wings folded tent-like over the body. It has been documented in the northeastern United States, particularly in Vermont.
Paraeschra tortuosa
Paraeschra tortuosa is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Tepper in 1881. It belongs to a genus of Australian notodontid moths. The species is documented through limited observations, with 45 records on iNaturalist. As with many Australian notodontids, detailed biological information remains sparse in published literature.
Peridea angulosa
Angulose Prominent
Peridea angulosa is a moth in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the angulose prominent. First described by James Edward Smith in 1797, this species is widely distributed across eastern North America. Adults are active from late spring through mid-summer and are associated with oak-dominated habitats. The larvae feed exclusively on Quercus species.
Peridea ferruginea
Chocolate prominent, Chocolate Birch Prominent
Peridea ferruginea, the chocolate prominent, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It was described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864 and occurs in North America. The species was historically confused with Peridea bordeloni, a river birch specialist that was distinguished as a separate species in 2018. The MONA/Hodges number for this species is 7921.
Periergosinae
Periergosinae is a subfamily of moths within the family Notodontidae, established by Kobayashi in 2016. The subfamily includes the genus Chadisra, which is distributed in the Sundaland region of Southeast Asia. Members are part of the diverse notodontid moth fauna, though specific ecological and biological traits remain poorly documented.
Phalerinae
Phalerinae is a subfamily of moths within the family Notodontidae (prominent moths), established by Butler in 1886. The subfamily includes the genus Antheua, which comprises 44 valid species distributed across the Afrotropical region. Recent taxonomic revision has significantly clarified the diversity of this group, describing 19 new species in Antheua and reinstating the genus Parazana from synonymy. Phalerinae is distinguished by morphological features of adults and genitalia that separate it from other notodontid subfamilies.
Pheosia
Pheosia is a Palearctic genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae. The genus includes several species, with Pheosia gnoma (Lesser Swallow Prominent) and Pheosia tremula (Swallow Prominent) being the most well-documented. Species within this genus are distinguished by characteristic wing patterns and larval host plant associations with woody plants.
Pheosia rimosa
Black-rimmed Prominent, Fissured Prominent, False-sphinx
Pheosia rimosa is a moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864. It is widely distributed across North America with a notable gap in the southeastern United States. The species exhibits a wingspan of 43–62 mm and adults are active from spring through fall. Larvae feed on leaves of Populus and Salix species. The taxon Pheosia portlandia, previously considered a distinct Pacific coastal species, has been synonymized with P. rimosa.
Phryganidia
California Oak Moth
Phryganidia is a genus of prominent moths in the family Notodontidae, containing three species found in western North America. The genus is best known for Phryganidia californica, commonly called the California Oak Moth or California Oakworm, which undergoes periodic population outbreaks that can cause extensive defoliation of oak trees along the California coast. The genus was formerly placed in its own family, Dioptidae, but has been reclassified into Notodontidae. Adults are dull brown with weak flight, while larvae are specialized feeders on oak foliage.
Phryganidia californica
California Oak Moth, California Oakworm
Phryganidia californica, commonly known as the California oak moth or California oakworm, is a moth in the family Notodontidae. It is the only member of its subfamily Dioptinae found north of Mexico. The species is notable for periodic population outbreaks that can cause extensive defoliation of oak trees along the California coast. Adults are active from March to November, with two generations per year in northern California and occasionally three in southern California.
Praeschausia
Praeschausia is a monotypic moth genus in the family Notodontidae, established by Foster Hendrickson Benjamin in 1932. It contains a single species, Praeschausia zapata, described by William Schaus in 1920. The genus is endemic to Mexico.
Praeschausia zapata
Praeschausia zapata is the sole species in the monotypic moth genus Praeschausia, erected by Foster Hendrickson Benjamin in 1932. The species was originally described by William Schaus in 1920 under the basionym Kalkoma zapata. It belongs to the family Notodontidae (prominent moths) and is known from Mexico. The genus name Praeschausia honors Schaus, the original describer.
Pseudhapigia
Pseudhapigia is a monotypic moth genus in the family Notodontidae, established by William Schaus in 1901. The genus contains a single species, Pseudhapigia brunnea, which occurs in North America with its type locality in Guadalajara, Mexico. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 8029. The genus is classified within the subfamily Hapigiinae.
Pseudhapigia brunnea
Hollow-spotted Prominent
Pseudhapigia brunnea is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, commonly known as the Hollow-spotted Prominent. It is the sole member of the monotypic genus Pseudhapigia. The species was first described by William Schaus in 1901 from Guadalajara, Mexico, and is known to occur in North America.
Pygaerinae
silver prominents
Pygaerinae is a subfamily of the moth family Notodontidae, commonly referred to as the silver prominents and relatives. The subfamily was established by Duponchel in 1845. The genus-level taxonomy remains preliminary, as not all Notodontidae species have been assigned to subfamilies. The subfamily includes genera such as Clostera, Gluphisia, Pygaera, and Spatalia. Members are found across multiple continents with substantial observational records.
Rifargia
Rifargia is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Heterocampinae, first described by Francis Walker in 1862. The genus contains six described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. These moths are part of the prominent moth group, characterized by their robust bodies and often cryptic coloration. The genus name has been stable since its original description, with no major taxonomic revisions reported.
Rifargia benitensis
A species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described from Chile in 1971. It belongs to the genus Rifargia, a group of Neotropical moths characterized by distinctive wing patterns and body morphology. The species is documented from limited observations in its native range.
Rifargia ditta
Rifargia ditta is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Barnes and McDunnough in 1910. It belongs to the subfamily Heterocampinae, a group of prominent moths characterized by their distinctive resting posture and often striking larval forms. The genus Rifargia contains multiple species distributed primarily in North America. This species has been documented through a limited number of observations, suggesting it may be uncommon or underreported.
Rifargia occiclina
Rifargia occiclina is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, described by Miller in 2021. It belongs to the genus Rifargia, which comprises approximately 25 species distributed primarily in the Neotropics. As a recently described species, published knowledge about its biology and ecology remains limited. The species is documented through a small number of observations on iNaturalist.
Scevesia angustiora
Scevesia angustiora is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae, first described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1910. It belongs to the subfamily Nystaleinae and is recorded from North America. The species has been assigned Hodges number 7963 in the North American moth numbering system.
Schizura badia
chestnut schizura, chestnut schizura moth
Schizura badia, commonly known as the chestnut schizura, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It is found in North America. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 8006.
Schizura biedermani
Schizura biedermani is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1911. It is native to North America and assigned MONA/Hodges number 8004. The species belongs to a genus whose larvae are commonly known as redhumped caterpillars, though specific details about S. biedermani's biology remain poorly documented.
Schizura ipomaeae
Morning-glory Prominent, morning-glory prominent moth, false unicorn caterpillar
Schizura ipomaeae, the morning-glory prominent moth, is a North American notodontid moth whose caterpillar is commonly known as the false unicorn caterpillar. The species is found throughout the United States and southern Canada. The caterpillar feeds on morning glory (Ipomoea) and related plants in the Convolvulaceae family. The adult moth is nocturnal and attracted to light.
Symmerista
Symmerista is a genus of prominent moths (family Notodontidae) erected by Jacob Hübner in 1821. The genus contains at least nine described species distributed primarily in North America, with several species described from Central America. Larvae are notable for a distinctive leaf-clipping behavior where they sever petioles after feeding and apply red saliva to the cut surface, a trait that has been experimentally demonstrated to introduce salivary constituents into the plant's vascular system to suppress defense responses in nearby leaves.
Symmerista albifrons
White-headed Prominent, Orange-humped Oakworm
Symmerista albifrons, known as the white-headed prominent or orange-humped oakworm, is a moth species in the family Notodontidae. First described by J.E. Smith in 1797, it occurs throughout North America. The species is recognized by its distinctive white head and orange thoracic hump, with larvae that feed on oak foliage. It belongs to a genus of prominents whose caterpillars are important prey items for solitary wasps such as Ammophila procera.
Symmerista canicosta
Red-humped Oakworm Moth
Symmerista canicosta, the red-humped oakworm moth, is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae. It is found across eastern North America from southern Canada to the southeastern United States. The species is notable for being a host for the parasitoid wasp Ammophila procera, which provisions its nests with caterpillars of this and related moth species.
Symmerista schmidti
Symmerista schmidti is a moth species in the family Notodontidae (prominent moths), described by Miller in 2021. It belongs to the genus Symmerista, which contains several species of caterpillars that serve as hosts for parasitoid wasps, particularly thread-waisted wasps in the genus Ammophila. The genus Symmerista is known for caterpillars that feed on conifer foliage and display cryptic coloration resembling bark or wood.
Symmerista solistella
Symmerista solistella is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Miller in 2021. It belongs to a genus known for caterpillars that serve as hosts for parasitoid wasps, particularly thread-waisted wasps in the genus Ammophila. The genus Symmerista is characterized by caterpillars that feed on oak and other hardwood foliage.
Symmerista zacualpana
A species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Max Wilhelm Karl Draudt in 1932. Found in North America, with MONA/Hodges number 7955. Belongs to a genus whose caterpillars are known hosts for parasitoid wasps including Ammophila procera.
Truncaptera
Truncaptera is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Stauropinae, established by Becker in 2014. The genus belongs to the diverse superfamily Noctuoidea, a large group of moth species commonly known as owlet moths and their relatives. As a recently described genus, it represents a taxonomic refinement within the Notodontidae, a family characterized by prominent moths often with distinctive resting postures and reduced mouthparts in adults. The genus is part of the Neotropical fauna, though specific species-level diversity and ecological details remain limited in published literature.
Truncaptera inopinata
Truncaptera inopinata is a species of moth in the family Notodontidae (prominent moths), described by Draudt in 1932 under the basionym Lirimiris inopinata. The species belongs to the subfamily Stauropinae, a group characterized by distinctive larval morphology. As a member of the Notodontidae family, it is part of a diverse lineage of moths whose larvae often exhibit modified abdominal segments and defensive behaviors. The genus Truncaptera is relatively small and understudied, with T. inopinata being one of few documented species.
Ursia
Ursia is a small genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, the prominents. The genus was established in 1911 by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough. It contains two described species: Ursia noctuiformis (the type species) and Ursia furtiva. These moths are classified within the subfamily Heterocampinae.
Ursia furtiva
Ursia furtiva is a moth species in the family Notodontidae, first described by André Blanchard in 1971. It is endemic to Texas in the United States. The species is known from very few records, with only one observation documented on iNaturalist. Its larvae feed on specific Prunus species native to the region.
Ursia noctuiformis
Ursia noctuiformis is a species of prominent moth (family Notodontidae) first described in 1911 by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough. The species name "noctuiformis" refers to its resemblance to owlet moths (family Noctuidae). It is assigned MONA/Hodges number 8002.