Callima argenticinctella

Clemens, 1860

Orange-headed Callima Moth, Orange-headed Epicallima Moth

A small in the , with a wingspan of 10–13 mm. The display distinctive yellowish-orange coloration with silvery black-margined and a deep reddish-orange area. The is found in deciduous forests across eastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Texas. are attracted to ultraviolet light and are active from spring through autumn.

Orange-headed Epicallima (Callima argenticinctella) by WanderingMogwai. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Callima argenticinctella: /ˈkælɪmə ɑːrˌdʒɛntɪsɪŋkˈtɛlə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from similar small by the combination of yellowish-orange with silvery black-margined and the deep reddish-orange area between them. The distinctive orange and specific pattern separate it from other Callima and Epicallima . Examination of may be required for definitive identification from closely related .

Images

Appearance

A small with wingspan 10–13 mm. yellowish-orange with two silvery, black-margined : one along the margin from the fold to the basal angle, and another from the basal third of the inner margin to the . The basal area between these lines is deep reddish-orange. fuscous (dusky -gray).

Habitat

Deciduous forests. Specific microhabitat requirements within forests are not documented.

Distribution

Eastern North America: Nova Scotia to South Carolina, west to Kansas and Texas.

Seasonality

active from April to October.

Behavior

are and attracted to ultraviolet light. Frequently observed at blacklight sheets in deciduous forest .

Ecological Role

Presumed or fungivore in larval stage based on characteristics, though specific larval is undocumented. may contribute to though this has not been studied.

Human Relevance

Subject of citizen science documentation through National Week and iNaturalist. No economic importance documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Epicallima argenticinctellaSynonym; same under former generic placement
  • Other OecophoridaeSimilar size and ; distinguished by specific pattern with silvery black-margined and reddish-orange

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Sources and further reading