Aycos

Aycos is a genus of moths belonging to the family Geometridae. These moths are characterized by their slender bodies and, in many species, broad wings. The larvae of Aycos moths, like other geometrids, are typically "inchworms" or "loopers," known for their distinctive method of locomotion where they move by arching their bodies.

The distribution of Aycos species is primarily concentrated in the Neotropical region, encompassing Central and South America. Within this diverse area, different species have adapted to various ecological niches, from tropical rainforests to more arid scrublands. Their life cycles involve complete metamorphosis, starting as eggs, hatching into larvae, then pupating before emerging as adult moths.

Adult Aycos moths are often crepuscular or nocturnal, meaning they are most active during dawn, dusk, or at night. Their diet as adults typically consists of nectar from flowers, playing a role in pollination. The specific host plants for the larval stages vary by species, with many feeding on the foliage of different trees and shrubs found within their respective habitats. Research into the specific ecological roles and taxonomic classifications within the Aycos genus is ongoing, contributing to our understanding of insect biodiversity in the Neotropics.