Kauaʻi record · KCA-IA-00133
Ramie Moth
Arcte coerula
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About Ramie Moth
Ramie Moth (Arcte coerula) belongs to Erebidae in the order Lepidoptera. Its recorded origin status is introduced — invasive.
Natural history and identification
The ramie moth has large, conspicuous caterpillars that feed on nettle-family plants, including Hawaiian māmaki. The USDA identification account emphasizes the dark markings around the larval spiracles and a characteristic defensive response. These features help separate it from other caterpillars. Its association with māmaki matters because this is also a native butterfly host, but shared plants do not establish a measured competitive effect.
Kauaʻi occurrence and evidence
Atlas occurrence category: Present — newly detected. The Kauaʻi record is classified as “Present — newly detected”. Its cited evidence source is Kauaʻi Invasive Species Committee. First detected on Kauaʻi in December 2025. Report suspect larvae, adults, or feeding damage; do not publish precise response sites.
Account coverage
Published species details have been added. A complete Kauaʻi-specific account of identification, habitat, feeding, reproduction, and population trend is not yet established by the sources linked here.
Names and classification
- Scientific name
- Arcte coerula
- Common names
- Ramie Moth
- Family
- Erebidae
- Order
- Lepidoptera
- Record type
- species
Kauaʻi occurrence and status
- Kauaʻi occurrence
- Present — newly detected
- Origin
- Introduced — invasive
- Conservation status
- Rapid-response priority
Process and seasonal context
- Seasonal description
- Ramie moth (Arcte coerula) was first detected on Kauaʻi in December 2025. Its caterpillars can destroy māmaki and olonā and compete with the native Kamehameha butterfly for host-plant resources.