Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Balsa malana (Fitch, 1856)
Brachytaenia malana Fitch, 1856
Synonyms:
Balsa obliquifera Walker, 1860
Nola leodura Staudinger, 1887
Identification
Adult - forewing gray, darker in median, but paler in basal and subterminal areas and along costal edge; antemedial line broad zig-zag across wing; double postmedial line distinct only at costal edge, with inner part of double line longer than outer part, giving impression of a letter "Y"; darker gray median area has lighter spot near lighter area at costa; subterminal area partially crossed by a zig-zag line and shows faint, fine dark lines at the veins [adapted from description by Lynn Scott]
Larva - Small, stout, heavily spotted; somewhat spindle-shaped, thickest through the thoracic segments. Pinacula often white; other spots frequently with yellow cast. Head also heavily spotted. Prolegs short, inconspicuous from above, those on A3 and A4 slightly reduced. Spiracles orange. Anal prolegs directed backward. Larva less than 2 cm. Much shorter and stockier than our other eastern Balsa.
Habitat
Orchards, parks and yards, and woodlands
Season
Adults fly from May to August
Larvae in June and July
Food
Larvae feed on leaves of apple, cherry, elm, pear, plum
