Simple wave facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Simple wave |
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The Simple Wave moth (scientific name: Scopula junctaria) is a type of moth from the family called Geometridae. These moths are sometimes called "inchworms" because of how their caterpillars move. A scientist named Francis Walker first described this specific moth in 1861.
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Where the Simple Wave Moth Lives
This moth lives in many places across North America. You can find it all over Canada. It also lives in the northern parts of the United States. Its range goes as far south as Maryland, Arizona, and California.
What the Simple Wave Moth Looks Like
The Simple Wave moth is a small insect. Its wingspan (the distance from one wingtip to the other) is usually between 20 and 26 millimeters. That's about the length of a small coin!
Life Cycle of the Simple Wave Moth
Adult Simple Wave moths are active during the warmer months. You can see them flying from late May until August. They usually have one generation each year. This means that the moths complete their entire life cycle (from egg to adult) once per year.
What the Larvae Eat
The larvae, which are the caterpillars of the Simple Wave moth, eat different kinds of plants. They enjoy munching on plants like chickweed, clover, and elm trees. These plants provide the energy they need to grow and change into adult moths.
Types of Simple Wave Moths
Scientists have identified a few different types, or subspecies, of the Simple Wave moth:
- Scopula junctaria junctaria
- Scopula junctaria quinquelinearia (Packard, 1871)
- Scopula junctaria johnstonaria McDunnough, 1941
