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Paectes abrostoloides
The Large Paectes Moth or Sweetgum Defoliator (Paectes abrostoloides) is a species of moth of the Noctuidae family. Adult: lower portion of forewing PM line composed of two short connected arcs (a diagnostic feature); upper portion of PM line angles sharply foreward to meet costa; two black blotches in subterminal area near apexThe wingspan is 27-32 mm. Adult are on wing from April to October.
It is found from Massachusetts to Florida, west to Arizona and north to Utah. It has also been recorded from the Antilles and Honduras. Habitat is deciduous forests and edges, presumably near host plant. This one was photographed in Edgefield County, SC.
The larvae feed on the leaves of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). Hodges#8962
Spotted on Apr 17, 2013
Submitted on May 26, 2013
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