Mellilla Explained

Mellilla is a monotypic moth genus in the family Geometridae erected by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1873. Its only species, Mellilla xanthometata, the orangewing moth, was first described by Francis Walker in 1862. It is found in most of eastern North America.^{[1] [2]}

The wingspan is about 16–21 mm. Adults have been recorded on wing in early spring and again in late June in two generations per year. Adults are active during both the day and night.

The larvae feed on Gleditsia triacanthos.^[3]

Notes and References

1. Web site: 910691.00 – 6271.1 – Mellilla xanthometata – Orangewing Moth – (Walker, 1862) . North American Moth Photographers Group . Mississippi State University . June 21, 2019.
2. Web site: Pitkin . Brian . Jenkins . Paul . amp . November 5, 2004 . Mellilla Grote, 1873 . Butterflies and Moths of the World . . October 16, 2020.
3. Web site: Cotinis . December 2, 2017 . Species Mellilla xanthometata - Orange Wing - Hodges#6271.1 . BugGuide . June 21, 2019.