Nine Spotted Moth (Amata phegea)
The nine spotted moth is an Erebidae moth, first described by famed Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus in the 10th edition of Systema Naturae.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Amata
- Scientific Name: Amata phegea
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
They are gray-black and covered with thick, dark-brown bristles throughout their bodies. Larvae have reddish-brown heads and can reach up to 5 cm.
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Pupa
Pupation takes place on the ground in silk cocoons.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present. Males have thicker antennae and are generally smaller.
Color and Appearance
Their bodies are long, with a yellow spot on the 2nd segment and a yellow ring on the 6th segment of the abdomen.
Forewings: When the wings are open, theyare blueish black or greenish-black with six white spots and a metallic sheen. When the wings are closed, the colors and patterns remain visible.
Hindwings: When the wings are open, they are similar to the forewings in colors, with fewer spots. When the wings are closed, they become hidden.
Average wingspan: 35–40 mm
Flight pattern: Consistent
Season: Late May to August
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Egg
Eggs are generally laid on a variety of herbs.
Quick Facts
| Other Names | Yellow belted burnet |
| Distribution | Southern Europe, but sometimes spotted in north Germany |
| Habitat | Dry areas andopen forests containing shrubs and trees |
| Predators | Birds |
| Lifespan of Adults | 1 week |
| Host Plants | Herbaceous plants like bedstraws, dandelions, docks, fleaworts, and grasses |
| Adult Diet | Not recorded |
Did You Know
- The nine spotted moth mimics the appearance of Zygaena ephialtes, which is inedible for birds. This is an attempt of the species to avoid predation.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Amata
- Scientific Name: Amata phegea
