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Spotted apatelodes facts for kids

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The Spotted apatelodes (scientific name: Apatelodes torrefacta) is a type of moth. It belongs to the Bombycidae family. This moth is known for its unique look. It was first described by a scientist named Smith in 1797.


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Spotted apatelodes
Spotted Apatelodes (cropped).jpg
Showing faint brindling and singular white spots on each wing
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Phalaena torrefacta Smith, 1797
  • Apatelodes torrefacta var. floridana H. Edwards, 1886

Discover the Spotted Apatelodes Moth

The Spotted apatelodes is a fascinating insect. It is a medium-sized moth. Its wings often show faint patterns. You might also see single white spots on each wing. These features help identify it.

Where Does This Moth Live?

This moth can be found across a large part of North America. Its home range stretches from Maine in the northeast. It goes south all the way to Florida. To the west, it reaches Texas. It also lives north into Wisconsin and southern Ontario.

What Does the Spotted Apatelodes Look Like?

The wingspan of an adult Spotted apatelodes is about 32 to 42 millimeters. This is roughly the size of a large coin. Adults are usually seen flying from May to August. In warmer southern areas, there can be two groups of moths born each year. In the cooler northern regions, there is typically only one group per year.

What Do Spotted Apatelodes Larvae Eat?

The young moths are called larvae. These larvae are like caterpillars. They enjoy eating leaves from several types of trees. Their favorite foods include:

  • Ash trees (Fraxinus species)
  • Prunus trees (like cherry or plum)
  • Maple trees (Acer species)
  • Oak trees (Quercus species)

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