Dichomeris barnesiella
(Busck, 1907)
Dichomeris barnesiella is a small gelechiid with distinctive bicolored forewings. The was described from specimens collected in Arizona and Mexico. are active during spring and late summer. The sharply divided wing pattern is unusual within the .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichomeris barnesiella: /ˌdaɪkoʊˈmɛrɪs bɑːrˈnɛsiːɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The sharply divided bicolored forewings with creamy yellow costal half and purplish brown half are diagnostic. The two slight serrations in the yellow portion projecting into the dark area provide additional confirmation. No other Dichomeris in the region exhibits this precise pattern.
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 17 mm. Forewings divided into two sharply contrasting halves: costal half light creamy yellow, half purplish brown. The yellow costal portion extends nearly to apex but not quite reaching it, featuring two slight serrations projecting into the dark dorsal area. Hindwings uniformly dark fuscous.
Distribution
Mexico and Arizona, USA. Records indicate presence in both countries with specific localities in the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexican regions.
Seasonality
active in May and September, indicating at least two or extended pattern with spring and late summer periods.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dichomeris speciesLack the sharply divided bicolored forewing pattern with creamy yellow costal and purplish brown halves
- Trichotaphe speciesFormerly classified in this ; may share general gelechiid but differ in specific wing pattern details