Common Name

Wavy Lined Emerald

Scientific Name

Synchlora aerata

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.

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Arthropoda
  • Class: Insecta
  • Order: Lepidoptera
  • Family: Geometridae
  • Genus: Synchlora
  • Species: Synchlora aerata
Habitat

Grassland, Urban

Distribution

Southern Canada to Georgia and Texas.

Abundance

Common

Activity Time

Nocturnal

Diet

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

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

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Threats & Impacts

Notes