Variable Oakleaf Caterpillar Moth
Lochmaeus manteo
The caterpillar is named 'variable' because its dorsal patterns can range from bright green to deep red and white, even within the same brood.
- Scientific name
- Lochmaeus manteo
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Arthropoda › Insecta › Lepidoptera › Notodontidae › Lochmaeus
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- forest
- Habitat
- Deciduous and mixed forests containing oak, beech, and birch trees.
- Diet
- Larvae consume foliage of oak, elm, and basswood; adults typically do not feed, focusing on reproduction.
- Range
- Eastern United States, Southeastern Canada, Texas, Florida
- Size
- Wingspan of 37 to 50 mm; larvae grow to about 40 mm.
- Lifespan
- 1 year total life cycle; adults live approximately 7-14 days.
- Active
- nocturnal
- Threats
- Broad-spectrum pesticide application and significant loss of deciduous forest canopy.
- Safe to approach?
- The adult moth is harmless and safe to observe. Use caution with the caterpillar stage, as it can spray irritating formic acid if handled. If skin or eye contact occurs, flush immediately with water.
Lochmaeus manteo , the variable oakleaf caterpillar moth , is a moth of the Notodontidae family. It is found in eastern North America.
Photo: Laura Gaudette, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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