New Moth Discovered on Crete and Named in Honor of Pope Leo XIV
In the White Mountains of western Greek island of Crete, scientists have discovered a new species of pyralid moth, distinguished by its bright coloration and unusual name. Researchers named it Pyralis papaleonei — "Pope Leo's moth", reports Phys.org.
Photo: Peter Huemer
Pyralis papaleonei has so far only been found in Lefka Ori (White Mountains) — the insect is likely endemic to Crete. The wingspan of "Pope Leo's moth" is about two centimeters, which is an average size for its group.
This moth is easily distinguished by its purple forewings with an orange-golden spot and prominent white stripes. Individuals have been observed near artificial light sources; they appear to be most active in June. Little is currently known about the biology and lifestyle of the new species.
The habitat of this moth. Photo: Peter Huemer
Scientists distinguished the pyralid moth from related species based on classical morphological characteristics (wing pattern, coloration, genital structure), as well as through genetic analysis. Molecular studies showed a difference of approximately 6% compared to the closest related species — this is sufficient to confidently declare it a distinct species.
The genus Pyralis has a special tradition of grand names. As early as 1775, Austrian naturalists described the first species of this group as Pyralis regalis ("royal"), inspired by its striking coloration. Later, Pyralis princeps and Pyralis cardinalis appeared. The new species continues this lineage.
The head of the research, Peter Huemer from the Tyrolean State Museum Ferdinandeum, believes that naming is not merely a formal act. The name serves as a symbolic appeal to the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, reminding humanity of its responsibility for preserving the natural world. Additionally, in Christian tradition, butterflies and moths are considered symbols of resurrection, transformation, and the immortal soul.
Huemer emphasizes: the world is experiencing a global biodiversity crisis, and only a small fraction of existing species have been scientifically described. Effective nature conservation is impossible if species are not first recognized, described, and named.
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