Epermenia pimpinella

Murtfeldt, 1900

Epermenia pimpinella is a small in the Epermeniidae, described by Mary Murtfeldt in 1900. It is recorded from scattered localities in the central and eastern United States. The has a wingspan of 12–14 mm and exhibits distinctive wing patterning with tufts.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Epermenia pimpinella: //ˌɛpərˈmiːniə ˌpɪmpɪˈnɛlə//

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Identification

Distinguished from related Epermenia by the combination of three rounded tufts on the forewings and the smudged, purplish-tinged coloration. The narrowly hindwings with exceptionally long fringes are characteristic of the Epermeniidae. Specific identification within the requires examination of genitalia or association with plant records.

Appearance

Small with wingspan 12–14 mm. Forewings dark slate grey to brownish, intermingled with dingy-white , giving a smudged appearance with purplish reflections. Three rounded tufts present, overlying a fine paler fringe. Hindwings narrowly with long fine silky fringes.

Distribution

Recorded from South Carolina, Ohio, Illinois, Arkansas, and Oklahoma in the United States. The scattered distribution pattern suggests it may be more widespread but undercollected.

Sources and further reading