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Southern Flannel Moth

Harmful Effects of Southern Flannel Moth

Megalopyge opercularis

A species of Megalopyge, Also known as Italian Asp, Opossum Bug, Tree Asp, Fire Caterpillar

Contact with southern Flannel Moth can cause allergic reactions and release neurotoxins and cytotoxins, leading to symptoms like irritation, pain, rashes, swelling, headaches, nausea, and respiratory distress. Transmission occurs through urticating hairs during the larval stage. Reactions vary in severity, but severe cases may require medical attention. Long-term effects are uncommon but may include scarring.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Southern Flannel Moth cause allergies?
Allergenic

Is the Southern Flannel Moth poisonous?

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Humans
Toxic Stage
Larvae
Poisoning Groups
Humans, Other Vertebrates
Toxin Function
Defense Mechanism
Methods of Secreting Venom
Hair
Ways of Poisoning
Touch
Toxicity Intensity
Mild to Severe
Southern Flannel Moth's larvae possess urticating hairs that, when touched, can release neurotoxins and cytotoxins, leading to symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe pain and discomfort. These hairs can break off and embed in skin, causing stinging sensations, rashes, or swelling. In more severe cases, symptoms may progress to headaches, nausea, and respiratory distress. Long-term effects are rare but can include scarring from intense reactions.
Toxic to Animals
Toxic Group Type
Vertebrates, Invertebrates
Toxic Objects Examples
Pets like dogs and cats, small mammals, insects
Toxic Stage
Adults, Larvae
Toxin Function
Defense Mechanism
Toxic Types
Immunotoxins
Toxic Secreting Methods
Hair Penetration
Toxic Ways
Touch
Risk Level
Mild to Severe
Southern Flannel Moth is known for its potent venom, which can cause severe reactions in various animals through its bite. It typically affects animals with a functioning nervous system, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, paralysis, and potentially death if left untreated, especially in humans and smaller mammals. Birds and insects may also suffer from these effects, though the severity can differ widely. The adult stage of southern Flannel Moth is particularly dangerous due to its capability to inject venom using fangs.

Does the Southern Flannel Moth cause allergies?

Allergy Stage
Larvae
Allergy Groups
Most people are not affected
Allergy Severity
Severe
Allergen Types
Hair
Allergy Mechanisms
Contact
Contact with southern Flannel Moth during its larval stage can cause severe allergic reactions in most people due to its urticating hairs. These hairs contain allergens that can trigger symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, and rashes upon contact. Sensitivity varies among individuals, with some experiencing heightened reactions. Caution is advised when near southern Flannel Moth, especially during its caterpillar phase.

Harmful Facts About Southern Flannel Moth

Why are Southern Flannel Moth harmful to humans?
The larvae of southern Flannel Moth have urticating hairs that can cause discomfort upon contact. These hairs release toxins that may result in pain, swelling, and rashes. The severity varies, with some individuals experiencing more intense reactions, potentially leading to respiratory distress and other systemic symptoms due to an allergic response.
What is the best prevention for Southern Flannel Moth?
Avoiding direct contact with southern Flannel Moth is essential. Wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves and gloves when in areas where southern Flannel Moth may be present can help. Regularly maintaining gardens and surroundings to keep the southern Flannel Moth population in check is also recommended. Use of physical barriers or environmental controls can be beneficial.
What are the solutions for injuries caused by Southern Flannel Moth?
In case of irritation caused by southern Flannel Moth, Gently washing the affected area with soap and water can help remove urticating hairs. Applying a cold compress may relieve some symptoms. Ensuring that the area is clean and avoiding further contact will aid in recovery. During this time, avoid scratching to prevent secondary infections and monitor the site for signs of improvement. If symptoms escalate, seek professional guidance while maintaining precautionary measures.
More Insects that are Similar to Southern Flannel Moth
White flannel moth
White flannel moth
This wingspan is 2.5 - 3.5 cm.
Norape virgo
Norape virgo
Norape virgo is a moth of the Megalopygidae family. It was described by Arthur Gardiner Butler in 1877. It is found from southern Texas and southern Arizona to Colombia. Adults are similar to Norape walkeri, but smaller. The forewings are shorter, broader and less glossy. The larvae feed on legumes.
Norape tener
Norape tener
Norape tener, the mesquite stinger moth is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It was described by Herbert Druce in 1897. It is found in south-eastern Arizona, southern New Mexico and Mexico. The wingspan is about 29 mm. Adults are white, with the disk of the thorax blackish. The forewings have a broad brown-black costal edge, and the outer and inner margins and the fringe, except at the apex, are of the same color. The inner border has a branch reaching up to the cell at the origin of vein 2. The larvae mainly feed on mesquite, acacia, paloverde and other desert plants. They are light green with black and white stripes and stinging hairs.
Megalopyge albicollis
Megalopyge albicollis
Megalopyge albicollis is a butterfly from the family of the Megalopygidae. The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1855 by Walker.
Megalopyge lanata
Megalopyge lanata
Megalopyge lanata is a moth of the family Megalopygidae. It was described by Caspar Stoll in 1780.
Black-waved flannel moth
Black-waved flannel moth
Megalopyge crispata, the black-waved flannel moth, crinkled flannel moth or white flannel moth, is a moth of the Megalopygidae family. It is found along the east coast of the United States, and as far inland as Oklahoma. This wingspan is 25–40 mm. Adults are on wing from May to October. There is one generation per year in the north, two or more in the south. The stinging larvae feed on various trees and shrubs.
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