Flame Carpet Moth vs Fatal Metalmark

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Flame Carpet Moth Fatal Metalmark
Scientific Name Xanthorhoe designata Calephelis nemesis
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Geometridae Riodinidae
Size 24-28 mm wingspan 18-25 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe Southwestern United States, Mexico
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Flame Carpet Moth

A small, attractive geometer moth with pinkish-brown and dark banding creating a flame-like pattern. Associated with cruciferous plants. Comes readily to moth traps.

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Did You Know?

The flame-like wing pattern gives this common moth its evocative English name.

Fatal Metalmark

A tiny dark brown butterfly with fine metallic silver lines across the wings and minute checkered fringes. Despite its ominous name, it is a harmless nectar feeder.

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Did You Know?

The name 'nemesis' refers to the Greek goddess of retribution, though the reason for this dramatic name is unclear.