The Ailanthus webworm moth is an intriguing species with elongated bodies and orange wings decorated with white and black dots. This creature raises questions about its potential for harm, specifically regarding its bite.
Do you know, Lepidopterism is the term used for skin and systemic reactions to contact with moth and butterfly larvae or caterpillars? However, it is essential to note that adult forms of moths and butterflies, such as this moth, do not sting.
Instead, any skin reactions might be associated with the caterpillar stage, also known as Erucism, which is derived from the Latin word “eruca,” meaning caterpillar source.
Ailanthus Webworm Moth
Ailanthus Webworm Moth Overview
Appearance and Physical Features
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea) is an attractive and unique insect with a distinct appearance. This moth has:
- Long and thin body
- Wings that curve lengthwise along the body
- Orange forewings with white spots outlined in black (resembling tiny flower patterns)
- Upward-curving mouthparts (labial palps)
- A tuft made of head scales
- Filamentous antennae held out in front of the head
An adult Ailanthus Webworm Moth typically has a wingspan of about 1/2 inch.
Distribution and Habitat
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth is a species of the tropical ermine moth family, native to South Florida but generally found in the United States.
Over time, the moth expanded its range, adapting to various ecosystems. Today, they can be found in:
- Parts of the United States
- Regions beyond the tropics
These moths have become pollinators and are often observed visiting flowers of various species during daylight hours. Their mating and egg-laying behavior occurs at dawn and dusk, respectively.
Life Cycle and Behavior
Mating and Egg Laying
The life cycle of the ailanthus webworm moth begins with mating and egg-laying. Adult moths usually emerge around late June to early July1. After mating, females lay eggs on the underside of leaves2. Hatching occurs within 2 weeks2.
Larvae and Caterpillars
Once hatched, the larvae, also known as caterpillars, of the ailanthus webworm moth create webs in the trees3. These webs can be up to 2 to 3 feet in length3.
The caterpillars are slender with a brown to almost black color and sometimes have four white dots on the top of each segment4.
Here’s a quick comparison between the caterpillars and adult moths:
| Features | Caterpillars | Adult Moths |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | 1/2 inch4 |
| Color | Brown-black | Yellow-orange4 |
| Activity | Summer3 | Late June, early July1 |
| Host | Ailanthus tree4 | N/A |
Pupation and Adult Moths
The caterpillars eventually enter the pupation stage, transforming into adult moths2. The winter months are spent as pupae in the soil2. In preparation for emerging in the summer months, larval development takes place2.
The adult moths are small, measuring about 1/2 inch in length, with yellow-orange wings marked by blue-black bands and white spots4.
In short:
- Ailanthus webworm moths have a life cycle consisting of mating, egg-laying, larval and pupation stages.
- Caterpillars create webs in trees during the summer months.
- Pupation occurs during winter, and adult moths emerge in late June and early July.
Host Plants and Diet
Primary Host Plant: Ailanthus Altissima
The Ailanthus webworm moth primarily feeds on the Ailanthus altissima, or Tree of Heaven. This tree is native to China but has become widespread in the United States. Ailanthus trees provide an ideal environment for the moth’s larval stage.
- Ailanthus trees are fast-growing, resilient, and considered invasive.
- They produce a foul-smelling compound to deter herbivores.
Other Host Plants and Food Sources
While Ailanthus altissima is their main host plant, these moths can feed on other plant species as well. Some common plants they may use as secondary food sources include:
- Shrubs, which can provide a diverse feeding ground.
- Trees and plants in the Simaroubaceae family, such as Simarouba glauca and Simarouba amara.
Although their primary role is that of a pollinator, Ailanthus webworm moths are not restricted to consuming nectar as their only diet source. They are versatile eaters and able to adapt to various host plants.
Ailanthus altissima/Tree of Heaven
| Host Plant | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ailanthus Altissima | The ideal environment for the larval stage | Invasive species |
| Shrubs | Diverse feeding ground | Potentially harmful |
| Simaroubaceae family | Additional food sources | Not always available |
As seen in the table above, while the Ailanthus webworm moth has a preferred host plant, it can and will utilize other plant species when necessary.
This ability to adapt to their food sources makes them effective pollinators, albeit potentially harmful to certain plants.
Interactions with Humans and the Environment
Is the Ailanthus Webworm Moth Poisonous?
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth is not poisonous. They are small, jewel-like insects with unique color patterns. They have upward-curved labial palps and filamentous antennae1. Humans can safely interact with them without fear of being harmed.
Effects on Invasive Species
Ailanthus Webworm Moths are important for controlling invasive species like the Tree of Heaven. Their larvae feed on the leaves of these invasive trees, aiding in their management.
Management
Ailanthus Webworm Moths are not considered pests, so control measures are typically unnecessary. In fact, they are often welcomed by gardeners as they are effective pollinators2 and their larvae help control invasive species.
- Pros:
- Effective pollinators
- Help control invasive species
- Attractive appearance
- Cons:
- None
| Feature | Ailanthus Webworm Moth | Fall Webworm |
|---|---|---|
| Importance | Pollinators | Harmful pests |
| Impact on Trees | Control invasive species | Damaging landscapes |
| Distribution | Tropical areas | Widespread in the U.S. |
| Appearance | Jewel-like insects | Plain, dull coloring |
Conclusion
In summary, Ailanthus Webworm Moths are not poisonous and have a positive impact on the environment. They are effective pollinators and help control invasive species, making them a good addition to gardens and natural habitats.
Footnotes
- https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/forest_health/insects/fall_webworm.htm ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
- https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what-are-those-large-webs-in-my-trees ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
- https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/ailanthus-webworm-moth ↩ ↩2 ↩3
- https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/ailanthus-webworm ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
