Battaristis cyclella
(Busck, 1903)
Battaristis cyclella is a small described by August Busck in 1903. It is known from the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona and Utah. The is characterized by distinctive patterning with contrasting dark olive- markings on a pale yellowish background.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Battaristis cyclella: /bætəˈrɪstɪs sʌɪˈsɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The combination of small size (14-14.5 mm wingspan), whitish with dark fawn shading, and the specific pattern of a large semicircular spot plus four streaks distinguishes this from other Battaristis. The V-shaped with black dash and adjacent checkered scaling is particularly distinctive. Similar in the region lack this exact arrangement of markings.
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona and Utah in the southwestern United States. Distribution records from GBIF indicate presence in the US only.
Similar Taxa
- Other Battaristis speciesShare general and small size, but differ in specific pattern elements, particularly the arrangement and orientation of streaks and the presence of the V-shaped with black dash.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Anacampsis cyclella by Busck in 1903, later transferred to Battaristis. The basionym reflects its placement in Anacampsis at the time of original description.
Observation frequency
Relatively few documented observations (24 records in iNaturalist as of source date), suggesting it may be uncommon, underrecorded, or restricted in range.