Pink-fringed Dolichomia Moth

The wide pink border surrounding the wings of the Pink-fringed Dolichomia Moth is neat on the sides and feathery on the bottom.

Most of the Pink-fringed Dolichomia Moth is actually a sage-green color, but it does have a strong pink tone. Two yellow or ivory triangles sit at the edge of each forewing. A thin pale line extends from each triangle and crosses the wings. These markings are also seen in a close relative, the Yellow-fringed Dolichomia. The Clover Hayworm Moth is also similar is appearance to this species. A dark pink border runs along all sides of the forewings on most Pink-fringed individuals, but for some, it may be quite faded pink. The pink color also runs along the fine fringe at the bottom of the wings. Wings are usually held flat, and the abdomen can curve upward, poking out between them. Antennae are held over the body instead of extended out in front of the face.

What this moth eats as an adult or as a larva is a bit of a mystery. Other members of this family eat dead plant matter or dried grains. It is possible that this species does as well, but more study is needed to fill in the information gaps regarding its life history and diet.

Taxonomic Hierarchy

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Pyralidae

Genus: Hypsopygia

Species: binodulalis

Identifying Information

Scientific Name: Hypsopygia binodulalis

Category: Butterfly or Moth

Size (Adult; Length): 10mm to 22mm (0.39in to 0.86in)

Colors: green; pink; brown

Descriptors: mint, moss green, fringe, flying

Territorial Map

Alaska

Hawaii

Prince Edward Is.

Contiguous United States shape map layer graphic

Territorial Reach (A-to-Z)

Newfoundland and Labrador

Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.

Butterfly and Moth Anatomy

Graphic showing basic anatomy of a common North American butterfly and moth insect

Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.

Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.

Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.

Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.

Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.

Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.

NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.

Pink-fringed Dolichomia Moth (Hypsopygia binodulalis)

The wide pink border surrounding the wings of the Pink-fringed Dolichomia Moth is neat on the sides and feathery on the bottom.