Callopistria mollissima

Callopistria mollissima (Pink-shaded Fern Moth). Larvae feed on ferns.

comments (8)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Gorgeous! Often the small ones are the most beautiful! Posted 6 years ago
1. Gary B
  
  Lion
  
  So many of these tiny moths have spectacular coloring and patterns, often iridescent. I wonder what function that might serve? Posted 6 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    I discussed this before with Christine I think, and we didn't really come to an answer. Posted 6 years ago
  2. 1. Christine Young
      
      Lion
      
      Ah, but we did. Or, maybe I just forgot to tell you, Ferdy, lol.
      
      It is thought that the iridescence is used to avoid predation. The wings change color with movement, which causes undulating light flashes in flight. This makes it hard for predators to follow.
      
      Also, iridescent wing scales absorb more heat (I think?) and are probably important in thermoregulation.
      
      Not sure if small moths are more iridescent than larger ones though... Posted 6 years ago
    2. 1. Ferdy Christant
        
        Lion
        
        I stand corrected, sorry! Posted 6 years ago
      2. Christine Young
        
        Lion
        
        No worries, it's most likely that I read about it and forgot to pass on the info to you ;) Posted 6 years ago
      3. Gary B
        
        Lion
        
        Check the MPG page at http://mothphotographersgroup.msstate.edu/slow.php?plate=01&size=s&sort=h and look at those sparkly moths. The top one, Epimartyria auricrinella, is on my "to find" list. Posted 6 years ago
      4. Christine Young
        
        Lion
        
        WOW! Those are incredible! Posted 6 years ago