Lackey Moth (Malacosoma neustria)
The lackey moth is a member of the family of lappet moths. Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus first described this moth in his 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Lasiocampidae
- Genus: Malacosoma
- Scientific Name: Malacosoma neustria
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae are covered with bright orange, white and blue stripes, around 4-5.5 cm when fully mature. They prepare silken tents to regulate temperature.
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Pupa
When caterpillars are ready to pupate, they fall to the ground and undergo metamorphosis. They form a pupa between the leaves of the host plants.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
When the wings are opened, they appear to be a uniform color, either yellowish-orange or brown. There are two dark crossed lines over its wingspan. When the wings are closed, the colors remain visible.
Average wingspan: 2.5 – 3 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: June to August
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Egg
The eggs of these moths tend to be laid in ring-like bands.
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Quick Facts
| Distribution | Asia, North Africa, and Europe |
| Habitat | Bushy grasslands, coppices, hedgerows, road verges, and woodlands |
| Lifespan of Adults | Not recorded |
| Host Plants | Apple, hornbeam, lime, oak, pear, plum, and willow |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- There are three sub-species of these moths – Malacosoma neustria neustria, Malacosoma neustria flavescens, and Malacosoma neustria formosana.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Lasiocampidae
- Genus: Malacosoma
- Scientific Name: Malacosoma neustria
