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Idaea incalcarata is a small geometer moth belonging to the subfamily Sterrhinae. Described by Chrétien in 1913, this species is widely distributed across the Mediterranean region and is frequently documented in the Iberian Peninsula.
Appearance & Identification
Wingspan: Very small, measuring roughly 12 to 15 mm in wingspan.
Wing Pattern: Their wings feature a series of dark brown, concentric semicircles that become progressively more concentrated and marked towards the rear, resulting in a distinctively darker submarginal area compared to the lighter basal area.
Distinct Markings: The upper margin of the forewings (the costa) displays three prominent, highly contrasting, and evenly spaced dark spots.
Wing Edges: The wing margins (excluding the costa) are edged with a fringed border of alternating light beige and dark brown.
Ecology & Behavior
Distribution: They are an atlanto-mediterranean species. You can find populations across various locations in Spain (such as Aragón, Albacete, and Alicante) and parts of southern France.
Flight Period: Depending on the local climate, these moths can be trivoltine—meaning they have three overlapping generations per year with flight periods spanning from early spring through autumn.
Habitat: Typically found in calcareous soils, scrublands, and natural reserves such as the Carrascal de la Font Roja in Alicante.
