Southern Nepytia Moth

This southern moth feeds on pine trees that grow in the warm, humid, coastal states.

Updated: 5/21/2020; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org

Southern Nepytia caterpillars feed on pine trees. Though the common evergreen tree is usually associated with colder climates, a variety of pine species tolerate heat and humidity well and thrive in warm-weather states like Florida. Because the moth does not have to deal with freezing winters, it is active in its range all year long. It is closely related to the False Hemlock Looper, but that species rarely ventures as far south.

Taxonomic Hierarchy

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Geometridae

Genus: Nepytia

Species: semiclusaria

Identifying Information

Scientific Name: Nepytia semiclusaria

Category: Butterfly or Moth

Size (Adult; Length): 22mm to 30mm (0.86in to 1.17in)

Colors: gray; white; black

Descriptors: dark scalloped line; black dash; pale; flying; hemlock looper

Territorial Map

Alaska

Hawaii

Prince Edward Is.

Territory map graphic of the country of Mexico

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.

Southern Nepytia Moth (Nepytia semiclusaria)

Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Southern Nepytia Moth.

This southern moth feeds on pine trees that grow in the warm, humid, coastal states.