Helcystogramma melantherella
(Busck, 1900)
A small described by August Busck in 1900. have distinctive dark, lustrous with contrasting pale markings. feed on several including Melanthera nivea, the plant referenced in the species epithet. The species occurs in the southeastern and south-central United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Helcystogramma melantherella: //hɛlkɪstoʊˈɡræmə mɛˌlænθəˈrɛlə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Dark, lustrous with specific pattern of -edged black markings distinguish this from other small . The combination of streak, dot, and pale with yellowish streak is diagnostic. Similar in Helcystogramma lack this exact marking arrangement.
Appearance
Small with wingspan 12.5–13 mm. deep purplish , nearly black, with satin luster. Markings include: short black streak before middle near margin, edged with anteriorly and posteriorly; small round black dot at end of , slightly edged posteriorly with white; narrow, scarcely perceptible outwardly angulated paler at fourth, terminating in yellowish streak. dark purplish grey.
Distribution
North America: recorded from North Carolina south to Florida, west to Texas and Arkansas.
Diet
feed on Calyptocarpus vialis, Cynara scolymnus, Melanthera nivea, and Xanthium strumarium. feeding habits unknown.
Host Associations
- Calyptocarpus vialis - larval
- Cynara scolymnus - larval
- Melanthera nivea - larval referenced in epithet
- Xanthium strumarium - larval
Similar Taxa
- Other Helcystogramma speciesSimilar size and general appearance, but differ in specific pattern elements
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet melantherella refers to the larval Melanthera.
Taxonomic history
Described by August Busck in 1900.