Heteropacha facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Heteropacha |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
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| Family: |
Lasiocampidae
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| Genus: |
Heteropacha
Harvey, 1874
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| Species: |
H. rileyana
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| Binomial name | |
| Heteropacha rileyana Harvey, 1874
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A moth is a fascinating insect, often seen fluttering around lights at night. One special type is called Heteropacha rileyana, also known as Riley's lappet moth. It's a unique kind of moth because it's the only species in its group, called a monotypic genus. This moth was first described by a scientist named Leon F. Harvey in 1874.
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All About Riley's Lappet Moth
Riley's lappet moth is a member of the Lasiocampidae family. This family is known for its moths often having a "lappet" or flap-like appearance.
What Does Riley's Lappet Moth Look Like?
These moths are not very big. Their wingspan (the distance from one wingtip to the other) is usually between 27 and 36 millimeters. That's about the length of two or three small paperclips!
Where Does This Moth Live?
You can find Riley's lappet moth in several states across the United States. They live in places like Mississippi, Missouri, Texas, and Georgia. These moths are active and fly around from late April all the way through August.
What Do the Larvae Eat?
Like all moths, Riley's lappet moth starts its life as a larva, which is a caterpillar. These caterpillars have a favorite food! They love to munch on the leaves of the Gleditsia triacanthos tree, also known as the honey locust. This tree provides all the energy they need to grow and eventually turn into adult moths.
