Costaconvexa centrostrigaria

The Bent-line Carpet

Family: Geometridae · Class: Insecta · Order: Lepidoptera

The Bent-line Carpet (Costaconvexa centrostrigaria) is a moth in the family Geometridae, also known as the traveller. This species exhibits the typical characteristics of carpet moths, with wings displaying intricate patterns of lines and crosshatching that provide effective camouflage against tree bark and other natural surfaces. The species was formerly classified in the genus Orthonama, reflecting ongoing taxonomic refinements within the Geometridae family. Costaconvexa centrostrigaria has a broad distribution across North America, ranging from Maine and Quebec south throughout eastern North America. According to iNaturalist and other sources, the species is native to most of North America except the Arctic regions. The moth has also become established as an introduced species in several Atlantic island systems, including Great Britain, the Canary Islands, the Azores, and Madeira, demonstrating its capacity for long-distance dispersal and establishment in new environments. The species inhabits a variety of habitats where its host plants occur. Larvae feed on low-growing plants, particularly members of the Polygonaceae family including knotweed and smartweed species. These host plants are commonly found in disturbed areas, field margins, wetland edges, and other open to semi-open habitats. The moth's association with these widespread and often weedy plant species likely contributes to its broad distribution and ecological success. As with most Geometridae moths, Bent-line Carpet adults are nocturnal and attracted to artificial lights. The species exhibits the characteristic looping locomotion of geometrid caterpillars, also known as inchworms or measuring worms. Larvae feed externally on host plant foliage, typically during warmer months when plant growth is most active. The moth's common name "traveller" reflects its notable dispersal abilities, with individuals capable of crossing substantial distances including open water, as evidenced by its successful colonization of Atlantic islands. Costaconvexa centrostrigaria currently has no special conservation status and maintains stable populations throughout its native range. NatureServe assigns the species a Global Rank of G5, indicating it is secure globally with populations stable and not at risk. The species' broad host plant tolerance, wide distribution, and ability to utilize disturbed habitats suggest it is well-adapted to human-modified landscapes. Its successful establishment in introduced ranges further demonstrates the species' ecological flexibility and resilience. No specific management needs have been identified for this species, and it appears to benefit from the widespread occurrence of its Polygonaceae host plants in both natural and anthropogenic environments.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.