Painted Lichen Moth vs Lace Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Painted Lichen Moth Lace Bug
Scientific Name Hypoprepia fucosa Corythucha ciliata
Order Lepidoptera Hemiptera
Family Arctiidae Tingidae
Size 25-33 mm wingspan 3-4 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Wood Feeders Herbivores
Regions Eastern North America North America, Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Painted Lichen Moth

A small moth with distinctive grey forewings bearing bright red-orange stripes running from base to tip. It is one of the lichen moths, whose larvae feed on lichens and algae.

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Did You Know?

Its bold warning coloration advertises chemical defenses derived from the lichen compounds its larvae consume.

Lace Bug

A tiny bug with extraordinary lace-like transparent wing covers that resemble intricate stained glass windows. It feeds on sycamore and plane tree leaves, causing silvery discoloration.

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Did You Know?

The delicate lattice-like wing structure of lace bugs is so ornate and regular that it has inspired designs in jewelry, architecture, and 3D-printed materials.