Azelinini
Forbes, 1948
Genus Guides
2- Pero(Pero Moths)
- Stenaspilatodes
Azelinini is a tribe of geometer moths (Geometridae: Ennominae) characterized by stocky bodies, distinctive wing patterning with contrasting outer and middle forewing thirds, and several unique morphological traits in both and stages. The tribe was established by Forbes in 1948 and shows strongest diversity in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly South America, with some representation in North America. Members exhibit complex male genital modifications and several reductions or losses of structures typical in related ennomine tribes.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Azelinini: /ˌæzəlɪˈnaɪnaɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from related Ennominae by resting posture with hindwings concealed under forewings (versus exposed in most relatives). Forewing pattern of light outer third and dark middle third with spot resembles Ennomini but body form is stockier. Male genitalia with hypertrophied ampulla and gnathos, elongated uncus, well-developed socii, and frequent absence of cornuti on —autapomorphic modifications. Lack of comb of transverse setae on male abdominal segment A3 underside and associated scent-brush on hindleg tibiae separates from many Ennominae. Hindwing venation (Sc+R1 fusion) resembles Larentiini but not indicative of close relationship.
Images
Distribution
Southern Hemisphere, with particular diversity in South America. Several present in North America.
Behavior
rest with wings stretched parallel to substrate surface, hindwings concealed beneath forewings—distinctive posture differing from most related Ennominae.
Similar Taxa
- EnnominiSimilar forewing color pattern with contrasting outer and middle thirds and spot; distinguished by more slender body form and different resting posture with hindwings typically exposed.
- NacophoriniShares caterpillar setation on of A6 and pupal antennal ; distinguished by presence of male abdominal comb of setae on A3 and associated scent-brush.
- LarentiiniShares hindwing venation feature (Sc+R1 fusion); not closely related and distinguished by overall and genitalic characters.
- CampaeiniClosely related robust tribe; relationships and distinguishing characters require further study, potentially warranting subsumption into broader Ennomini.
More Details
Phylogenetic relationships
Azelinini appear closely related to Campaeini, Ennomini, Lithinini, Nacophorini, and the Odontopera. Some authorities suggest these robust tribes, including Azelinini, might warrant subsumption within Ennomini. Relationships with Caberini and Colotoini also possible but less certain.
Genus composition
Tribal assignment remains preliminary due to numerous unassigned ennomine . Core genera include Pero and Stenaspilatodes; Oratha (usually placed in Nacophorini) may also belong here.
Male genitalic autapomorphies
Complex and variable modifications of valvae include hypertrophied ampulla and gnathos. Unusual combination of elongated uncus with well-developed socii; sacculus rarely hairy; saccus vinculum neither extended nor recurved. Some or all lack cornuti on vesica—reduction unusual in Lepidoptera.
Female genitalia
Narrow ovipositor; robust funnel-shaped antrum; corpus bursae interior with small spines; delicate, weakly sclerotized ductus bursae.