Kingdom Animalia Class Insecta Family Geometridae Scientific name Rhodometra sacraria | Phylum Arthropoda Order Lepidoptera Genus Rhodometra Rank Species | |
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Similar Rhodometra, Scopula, Scopula imitaria, Camptogramma bilineata, Idaea ochrata | ||
The Vestal (Rhodometra sacraria) is a moth of the family Geometridae.
Contents
Distribution
This species can be found throughout Europe, in the Near East, in North Africa, in the Afrotropic ecozone and in large parts of Asia.
Habitat
It inhabits meadows, forest clearing, paths, gardens and urban environments.
Description
Rhodometra sacraria has a wingspan reaching 22–28 mm, while the length of the forewings is 12–14 mm. These moths are easily distinguishable from the mahogany or pink stripe, located on yellowish or cream background, crossing diagonally the dorsal sides of the upperwings up to the apex. The dorsal sides of the hind wings are whitish and unmarked. The intensity and the extent of the pink pigmentation is rather variable, depending on the seasonal temperature in the development of the pupae.
Biology
Usually these moths rest with a tent-like posture on twigs and herbs, with the wings parallel to each other. They fly from April to October in the northern hemisphere [1]. They are nocturnal, attracted to light and migrant. These moths breed in North Africa and in southern Europe, since they require constant warmth. The eggs are relatively long, yellowish, with distinct red spots.
The caterpillars mimic twigs and therefore they are quite difficult to locate. They are slender and reach a length of about 25 millimeters. The basic colour is pale brown or green, with a whitish underside. The green forms usually show a dark brown or reddish irregular stripe on the back. The head is reddish brown and relatively small. These caterpillars feed on knotgrass, dock, Anthemis, Emex, Oxygonum, Persicaria, Rhus and other low growing plants. The pupa can reach a length of 9.2 mm and a diameter of about 2.7 mm. It is yellowish brown colored, with dark spots.
