More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
Optimized for viewing on desktop or laptop
Moths of Zihuatanejo
ORDER LEPIDOPTERA
-Arthropods (Phylum Arthropoda)
-Hexapods (Subphylum Hexapoda)
-Winged and Once-winged Insects (Subclass Pterygota)
-Butterflies and Moths (Order Lepidoptera)
-Owlet Moths and Allies (Superfamily Noctuoidea)
-Underwing, Tiger, Tussock, and Allied Moths (Family Erebidae)
-Subfamily Eulepidotinae
-Genus Azeta
-Azeta rhodogaster
Azeta rhodogaster is a species of moth in the Erebidae family. A standout feature of this species is the reddish or pinkish coloration of the hindwings, which is likely referenced in the species name "rhodogaster" (Greek for "red belly"). When disturbed, they may display their brightly colored hindwings to startle predators, a behavior common among moths with hidden vivid coloration.
Azeta rhodogaster
Azeta rhodogaster
Description
Azeta rhodogaster is a medium-sized tiger moth in the family Erebidae, subfamily Arctiinae. Adults have stout, hairy bodies and broad wings with contrasting brown, grey, cream, and reddish or pinkish markings. The forewings are cryptically patterned, while the abdomen and hindwings can show brighter reddish coloration. The wingspan is generally around 30–40 mm.
Range
Azeta rhodogaster is a Neotropical species occurring from Mexico through Central America and into northern South America. It occurs along Mexico's Pacific lowlands, including Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.
Habitat
It inhabits tropical and seasonally dry forest, woodland, scrub, forest edges, and disturbed vegetation. Adults are nocturnal and may be attracted to lights, while the hairy caterpillars develop among low vegetation.
Diet
The caterpillars are herbivorous and feed on the leaves of a variety of plants, particularly low-growing herbaceous vegetation. Adults primarily obtain liquid nourishment such as nectar from flowers and other plant fluids.