Cymatophora approximaria Hubner, 1812
A geometrid moth
NatureServe Global Rank: G4G5
Virginia State Rank: S1S3
VA DGIF Tier: None
Federal Legal Status: None
Virginia Legal Status: None
Description: This Geometrid Moth is medium-sized (34mm), with variably pale gray to reddish-brown forewings with black lines. The hindwings are similarly colored, with scalloped outer margins and a single, almost straight postmedial line that has an outward-pointing "tooth" half-way across the wing. Males have pectinate antennae, darker wings, and heavier markings than females, which have simple antennae.
Similar species: It can be similar to the Tulip-tree Beauty (Epimecis hortaria) but is generally smaller and can be distinguished by the two conspicuous, sinuous lines on the front wing.
North American Range: This moth ranges from New Jersey and Virginia, south to Florida, and west to Texas. In Virginia, this moth was historically documented in Virginia Beach.
VA Observations by Locality: Virginia Beach, City of
Flight season and broods: Adults fly from August to November. It is a single brood species peaking in early November.
Habitat and Food Plants: The habitat has not been described. This moth has been reported to feed on Smilax, Quercus, and Rhexia.
Behavior and Ecology: Little is known regarding the life history of this moth.
Population trend and potential threats: The population size and potential threats are not known.
Management practices: Because little is known regarding its life history or potential threats, management practices have not been determined.
References: Bug Guide. 2003. Iowa State University Entomology. 3 May 2012 < http://bugguide.net/node/view/245025>.
Moth Photographers Group at the Mississippi Entomological Museum at Mississippi State University. Web application at: http://mothphotographersgroup.msstate.edu/large_map.php?hodges=6745 Accessed: 14Apr2013
Vernon, Antoine Brou Jr. 2004. Cymatophora approximaria Hubner in Louisiana. http://lsuinsects.org/people/vernonbrou/pdf/2004.%20102.%20Cymatophora%20approximaria%20Hubner%20in%20Louisiana.%20So.pdf.