Biology:Macaria alternata

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Short description: Species of moth

Macaria alternata
Macaria alternata-02 (xndr).jpg
Scientific classification edit
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Geometridae
Genus: Macaria
Species:
M. alternata
Binomial name
Macaria alternata
(Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Synonyms[1]
  • Semiothisa alternaria
  • Geometra alternata Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775
  • Macaria alternaria (Hübner, 1809)

Macaria alternata, the sharp-angled peacock, is a moth of the family Geometridae. It is found in Europe, Turkey, the Caucasus, Georgia and South Siberia.

Macaria alternata.jpg

Description

The wingspan is 22–27 mm (0.87–1.06 in). The moth closely resembles the peacock moth (Macaria notata) but can usually be recognized by the deeper cut on the forewing edge (hence the name) as well as the distinctly darker grey band through both wings. However, some specimens may require examination of the genitalia for certain identification.[2]

The moth flies from May to June.[1]

Figs 2, 2a, 2b, 2c larvae after final moult

The larva feeds on sallow, alder, blackthorn and sea-buckthorn.

Notes

  1. ^ The flight season refers to the British Isles. This may vary in other parts of the range.

References

External links

Wikidata ☰ Q25635 entry