Dyscia is a genus of moths in the family Geometridae (subfamily Ennominae), first described by Jacob Hübner in 1825. These moths are generally medium-sized, with a wingspan typically ranging from 28 to 42 mm.
Here are key facts regarding the genus Dyscia:
Appearance and Characteristics
Coloration: Individuals range from pale grey or sandy beige to brownish-grey, often with numerous black spots or scales.
Wing Shape: A key identifier is the slightly concave outer margin of the forewings.
Physical Features: They lack a proboscis (tongue).
Distinct Species: While most are grey/beige, Dyscia nobiliaria is noted for its reddish coloration.
Environment: They inhabit open moorland, heathland, peat bogs, limestone ground, macchia shrubland, and olive groves.
Activity: They are nocturnal, with both sexes often attracted to light.
Flight Period: Depending on the species and region, they can be found flying from January to December, with peak activity often in spring and summer (e.g., May to July for D. conspersaria).
Diet and Life Cycle
Larval Foodplants: The larvae are oligophagous (feeding on a limited range of plants), primarily feeding on Fabaceae (Genista), Asteraceae (Artemisia, Achillea), Lamiaceae (Salvia), and Ericaceae (Calluna, Erica).
Overwintering: Species may overwinter as larvae, pupae, or adults.
Taxonomy and Species
Species Count: There are approximately 19 recognized species within the genus.
