punctulatum

punctulatum is a species of moth in the family Erebidae, notable for its distinctive spotted patterning and nocturnal habits. It was first described by entomologist George Hampson in 1896 from specimens collected in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. The adult moth has a wingspan of 25–30 millimetres, with forewings that are mottled brown and streaked with pale yellow spots, giving it the characteristic “punctulated” appearance referenced in its species name. Hindwings are lighter, often exhibiting a subtle translucent quality.

The species is most frequently observed during the wet season, when its larvae feed on a variety of low‑lying vegetation, including species of the plant families Lamiaceae and Asteraceae. The larval stage is relatively short, lasting approximately four weeks, after which pupation occurs in concealed silk cocoons woven into leaf litter. Adult activity peaks at night, at which time the moths are attracted to artificial light sources. Despite its patchy distribution, punctulatum is considered common within suitable habitats and faces no major conservation threats at present. The species serves as a useful indicator of forest health, given its reliance on undisturbed leaf litter and forest understory conditions.