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Wavy Lined Emerald

Wavy Lined Emerald

Synchlora aerata

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Grassland, Urban
Activity: Nocturnal (Active at night)

The larvae of this moth are loopers (inchworms) and camouflages itself with flower petals and other bits of plants. The adult moth is small with pale green wings. Wavy lines can be seen running along all four wings. There is a narrow white stripe running along the length of the abdomen.

Diet

Larvae feed on composite flowers, shrubs, and trees including Aster, Rudbeckia, Liatris, Solidago, Artemisia, Achillea and Rubus

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)
Kingdom: Animalia
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Phylum: Arthropoda
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Class: Insecta
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Order: Lepidoptera
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Family: Geometridae
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Genus: Synchlora
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Species: Synchlora aerata

Scientific Name

Synchlora aerata

Behavior

The caterpillar adorns its body with plant fragments, usually flower petals, to camouflage it as it feeds. This provides cover from gleaning birds that rely on keen eyesight. The camouflage can also block smaller animals from sensing them.

Ecological Role

Moths are important pollinators and their larvae are food sources for birds and other animals

Activity Pattern

Nocturnal (Active at night)

Habitat Types

Grassland
Urban

Geographic Distribution

Southern Canada to Georgia and Texas.

Local Abundance

Common

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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