Battaristis cyclella
(Busck, 1903)
Battaristis cyclella is a small gelechiid described by August Busck in 1903. It is known from the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona and Utah. The is characterized by distinctive wing patterning with contrasting dark olive-brown markings on a pale yellowish forewing 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 yellow forewings with dark fawn shading, and the specific pattern of a large semicircular spot plus four costal white streaks distinguishes this from other Battaristis. The V-shaped fascia with black dash and adjacent checkered scaling is particularly distinctive. Similar gelechiids 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 gelechiid and small size, but differ in specific forewing pattern elements, particularly the arrangement and orientation of costal streaks and the presence of the V-shaped fascia 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.