Oleander
Guides
Empyreuma
spotted oleander caterpillar moth
Empyreuma is a genus of tiger moths in the family Erebidae, containing three species. The genus name derives from the Greek ἐμπύρευμα, meaning "a live coal covered with ashes." Adults exhibit striking aposematic coloration with orange and black patterns that mimic stinging wasps. Larvae feed exclusively on oleander (Nerium oleander), a toxic plant containing cardiac glycosides that the caterpillars sequester for their own defense. The genus is notable for its acoustic courtship behavior, with males producing sounds detected by female tympanic organs.
Empyreuma pugione
Spotted Oleander Caterpillar Moth, Spotted Oleander Moth
Empyreuma pugione, the spotted oleander caterpillar moth, is a day-flying tiger moth native to the Caribbean region that was introduced to Florida in 1978. The adult moth exhibits striking orange and black aposematic coloration and wasp-like appearance, while the larvae feed on oleander (Nerium oleander) and other Apocynaceae. Both life stages sequester cardiac glycosides from their host plants, making them unpalatable to predators. The species is considered less destructive than its congener Syntomeida epilais due to solitary feeding habits and lower population densities.
Syntomeida epilais
Polka-Dot Wasp Moth, Oleander Moth, Uncle Sam Moth
Syntomeida epilais, commonly known as the polka-dot wasp moth or oleander moth, is a day-flying moth native to the Caribbean that has become established in the southeastern United States. The species is notable for its striking aposematic coloration—iridescent blue wings with white polka-dots and a red-tipped abdomen—that mimics the appearance of stinging wasps. Both adults and larvae sequester cardiac glycosides from their host plants, making them toxic to predators. The species possesses the most elaborate acoustic communication system known in the family Erebidae, with females producing ultrasonic signals to attract mates and defend against bats.