Ephestris
# Ephestris

Ephestris is a monotypic tiger moth genus in the family Erebidae. It contains the single species Ephestris melaxantha. Both the genus and species were first described by Jacob Hübner, the genus in 1820 and the species in 1809.

## Etymology

The specific name melaxantha derives from the Greek μελανός (melanós) meaning "black" and xanthus, meaning "golden haired" or "yellow", with reference to the striking coloration of the wings, probably a warning to predators.

## Description

Ephestris melaxantha has a wingspan of about 70 millimetres (2.8 in). Despite being a moth, it has diurnal behavior.

## Distribution

This species is native to Brazil and the tropical regions of South America.

