Leucogoniella distincta

(Keifer, 1935)

Leucogoniella distincta is a small gelechiid described by Keifer in 1935. It is known from California, with a wingspan of 7.5–9 mm. The has been recorded at blacklighting events in the Davis, California area, where it occasionally appears in large numbers. Its larval remains poorly documented.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Leucogoniella distincta: //ˌluːkoʊˌɡoʊnɪˈɛlə dɪˈstɪŋktə//

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Identification

Distinguished from the similar congeneric Leucogoniella californica by wing pattern details, though the two cannot always be confidently separated based solely on external . The antapical white fascia that is bent outwardly but not angulate, combined with the specific arrangement of white spots on the margins, may aid identification. Dissection may be required for definitive identification.

Appearance

A small with wingspan 7.5–9 mm. Forewings are shining grey, becoming blackish toward the apex, especially beyond the fascia. A faintly darker plical stigma is present at one-third. A short white outward dash occurs on the at halfway, preceded and followed by blackish markings. An antapical white fascia runs from the costa to the tornus, more or less bent outwardly in the center but not angulate. White spots are present around the margins, including one on the apex. Hindwings are lighter grey than forewings.

Distribution

Recorded from California, North America. Specific collection records include the Davis area in northern California. GBIF distribution records confirm presence in the United States.

Seasonality

Has been observed in large numbers around July in the Davis, California area, suggesting summer activity.

Similar Taxa

  • Leucogoniella californicaCongeneric with similar appearance; the two species cannot always be confidently distinguished based solely upon wing pattern, though L. distincta has a more distinctly bent (but not angulate) antapical white fascia.

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Sources and further reading