Zotheca is a monotypic genus of moths of the family Noctuidae. It contains one species: Zotheca tranquilla, or the elder moth. It is found in western North America.[1][2]

Zotheca
Zotheca tranquilla
Scientific classification
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Zotheca

Grote, 1874

Description edit

Adult elder moths are usually pale green, although some tan specimens have been recorded. The forewings are light green with darker green markings. The hindwings are white.[2] Adults are on wing in the summer.[2][3]

Larva have a pattern of yellow, black, and purple.[2]

Habitat and host plant edit

Elder moths are found in riparian habitats and moist forest habitats. The larvae feed on Sambucus (elderberry) plants.[2]

References edit

  1. ^ Lafontaine, Donald; Schmidt, Christian (2010-03-19). "Annotated check list of the Noctuoidea (Insecta, Lepidoptera) of North America north of Mexico". ZooKeys. 40: 1–239. doi:10.3897/zookeys.40.414. ISSN 1313-2970.
  2. ^ a b c d e "PNW Moths | Zotheca tranquilla". pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu. Retrieved 2023-04-21.
  3. ^ Pohl, Greg; Anweiler, Gary; Schmidt, Christian; Kondla, Norbert (2010-03-05). "An annotated list of the Lepidoptera of Alberta, Canada". ZooKeys. 38: 1–549. doi:10.3897/zookeys.38.383. ISSN 1313-2970.

External links edit