hypograpta

Hypograpta is a genus of moths in the family Noctuidae, subfamily Catocalinae. The genus was first described by George Hampson in 1906 based on specimens collected from the Indo‑Malaeic region. Species of Hypograpta are small to medium-sized, with forewings that display muted brown or gray coloration and distinct fine transverse lines. The hindwings are typically lighter, often showing subtle patterning that aids in camouflage against bark and foliage.

Most members of the genus are nocturnal and are attracted to artificial light sources, a behavior common to many catocaline moths. Larvae of known Hypograpta species feed primarily on the leaves of shrubs and trees within the families Euphorbiaceae and Lauraceae, although the full range of host plants remains poorly documented. The genus is distributed across Southeast Asia, extending into parts of Australia, with several species reported from the Philippines, Borneo, and New Guinea.

The genus currently contains about a dozen recognized species, including Hypograpta adusta, Hypograpta hyphota, and Hypograpta variegata. Taxonomic revisions have been undertaken using both morphological characters, such as wing venation and genitalia structure, and molecular data, which have clarified relationships within Catocalinae.

Despite their relatively simple appearance, Hypograpta moths contribute to the ecological diversity of nocturnal Lepidoptera in tropical ecosystems. Further entomological surveys are needed to better understand their life cycles, host preferences, and responses to habitat disturbance.