Agreeable Tiger Moth (Spilosoma congrua)
The agreeable tiger moth, a member of the Erebidae family, is one of the three white tiger moth species mainly common in the United States. English entomologist Frank Walker first described it in 1855.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Spilosoma
- Scientific Name: Spilosoma congrua
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
Larvae come in two different colors – orange with black stripes separating each segment and black with a continuous red stripe. Each separated segment has black hairs.
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Pupa
The pupa is black, encased in cocoon is made up of discarded larval hairs.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but prominent.
Color and Appearance: When opened, the wings are pure white, with black spots scattered all over, mainly on the forewings. When closed, the color remains unchanged, with fewer numbers of black spots seen.
Their other features include black eyes, a white abdomen, and a characteristic orange “bib”. Their legs are yellow.
Average wingspan: 27-47 mm
Flight pattern: Consistent
Season: April – August
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Egg
The eggs are white and spherical.
Quick Facts
| Distribution | United States, Canada, and India |
| Habitat | Not recorded |
| Lifespan of Adults | 1-2 weeks |
| Host Plants | Dandelions, pigweed, plantain, and mushrooms |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- The Virginian tiger moth is similar to the Agreeable tiger moth, but for the yellow bib and dark eyes present in the latter. This species even spreads its wings in a manner that resembles a tent, just as its close cousin does.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Spilosoma
- Scientific Name: Spilosoma congrua
