Species Detail

Polka-Dot Wasp Moth

Syntomeida epilais (Walker, 1854)

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Attributes of Syntomeida epilais

Family: Tiger Moths and Lichen Moths (Arctiidae)

Subfamily: Syntomine Moths (Syntominae)

Identification: Wings dark metallic blue with white spots. Body metallic blue; abdomen has a pair of white spots at base, and a red tip.

Life history: Like most wasp moths, this moth is a day-flier.

Flight: Not reported

Wing span: 4.2 - 5.2 cm.

Caterpillar hosts: Larva (Oleander Caterpillar) is a pest of cultivated oleander. Also feeds on devil's potato.

Adult food: Not reported

Habitat: Not reported

Range: Neotropical. The N. American subspecies is S. epilais jucundissima, which is locally common in all but northwest Florida in all months.

Conservation: Not reported

NatureServe Global Status: Not reported

Management needs: Not reported