Tegeticula yuccasella, Yucca Moth
- pollinators1
- Oct 15
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 11
Tegeticula yuccasella, a species of Yucca Moth, shares an important mutualistic relationship with Soapweed Yucca (Yucca glauca), common across Colorado’s arid prairies and foothills. In spring, the adult moths emerge from their cocoons in sync with yucca flowers. Female moths collect pollen, mate, and deposit eggs across various individual yucca plants, facilitating vital cross-pollination and seed production. Emerging larvae consume only some of the yucca seeds in a way that ensures the plant’s continued reproductive success. In turn, the yucca plants support a variety of other wildlife, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, and other insects. This is just one example from the intricate web of interactions that sustain our state’s ecosystems!
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report! Check out pages 36 and 41 to discover more about the Yucca Moth!
