Genus Anisota — Oakworm Moths

Hübner, 1820

Etymology

Anisota: The Latin meaning of “anisos” means unequal, and the term “ota” was a Greek word for ear.

Pronunciation

an-eye-soh-tuh

Overview

Anisota is a small genus of silkworm moths in the family Saturniidae that are endemic to North America.

Distribution of Genus Anisota
Taxonomic Level	Worldwide	North America	Midwestern USA	Indiana
Species	18	18	4a	3

Type Species

Anisota stigma, first described in 1775 by Johan Christian Fabricius as Bombyx stigma.

Anisota in Indiana

The map, graph, and data below represent the Indiana sightings of the genus Anisota. All sightings were confirmed through photographic evidence by individuals who contributed to the Great American IN Nature Lepidoptera Project (GAIN LP). All data is current as of 18 May 2024.

Occurrences by County

Sightings by Species

Total Sightings by Year

• Total number of observations (all years combined): 81
• Number of field observers: 37

Photo Credits

Anisota senatoria courtesy Matt Bowman. Anisota stigma courtesy of Rick Malad. Anisota virgiensis courtesy John Lindsey.