More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Moths of Zihuatanejo
ORDER LEPIDOPTERA
-Arthropods (Phylum Arthropoda)
-Hexapods (Subphylum Hexapoda)
-Winged and Once-winged Insects (Subclass Pterygota)
-Butterflies and Moths (Order Lepidoptera)
-Carpenter, Leopard, Goat, and Allied Moths (Superfamily Cossoidea)
-Carpenter and Leopard Moths (Family Cossidae)
-Leopard Moths (Subfamily Zeuzerinae)
-Genus Brypoctia
-Brypoctia ramosa
Brypoctia ramosa is a moth species in the Cossidae family. Members of this family are known for their stout bodies, cryptic coloration, and larvae that bore into wood or plant stems. The body is thick and sturdy, adapted for a life cycle involving boring larvae. Larvae bore into the stems, trunks, or roots of host plants, feeding internally and creating tunnels.
Leopard Moths
Brypoctia ramosa
Description
• Brypoctia ramosa is a moth in the family Erebidae, subfamily Arctiinae. Adults have patterned wings with mottled brown, grey, and pale markings that help them blend into bark and dry vegetation. As with many related moths, the body is covered in fine scales and the wings are held roof-like when resting.
Range
• Brypoctia ramosa is a Neotropical species associated with Mexico and Central America. It occurs in the Pacific lowlands of Mexico, including Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.
Habitat
• It inhabits tropical and seasonally dry forest, woodland, scrub, forest edges, and disturbed vegetation. Adults are generally nocturnal and may be attracted to artificial lights, while larvae develop on vegetation within these habitats.
Diet
• The caterpillars are presumed to feed on plant material, including leaves and other soft tissues, although species-specific host plants are not well established. Adult feeding habits are poorly documented; related moths may consume nectar or other liquid food sources.