Zotheca Explained

Zotheca is a monotypic genus of moths of the family Noctuidae. It contains one species: Zotheca tranquilla, or the elder moth. It is found in western North America.^{[1] [2]}

Description

Adult elder moths are usually pale green, although some tan specimens have been recorded. The forewings are light green with darker green markings. The hindwings are white. Adults are on wing in the summer.^[3]

Larva have a pattern of yellow, black, and purple.

Habitat and host plant

Elder moths are found in riparian habitats and moist forest habitats. The larvae feed on Sambucus (elderberry) plants.

External links

• Zotheca at funet

Notes and References

1. Lafontaine . Donald . Schmidt . Christian . 2010-03-19 . Annotated check list of the Noctuoidea (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of North America north of Mexico . ZooKeys . 40 . 1–239 . 10.3897/zookeys.40.414 . 1313-2970. free .
2. Web site: PNW Moths Zotheca tranquilla . 2023-04-21 . pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu.
3. Pohl . Greg . Anweiler . Gary . Schmidt . Christian . Kondla . Norbert . 2010-03-05 . An annotated list of the Lepidoptera of Alberta, Canada . ZooKeys . 38 . 1–549 . 10.3897/zookeys.38.383 . 1313-2970. free .