Iridopsis defectaria
(Guenée, [1858])
Brown-shaded Gray, brown-shaded gray moth
Iridopsis defectaria is a geometrid commonly known as the Brown-shaded Gray. It is widely distributed across eastern and central North America, ranging from Pennsylvania west to Iowa and Kansas, south to Texas, and east to Florida. are and attracted to light. The was previously classified under the Anacamptodes, which has since been synonymized with Iridopsis.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Iridopsis defectaria: /ˌɪrɪˈdɑpsɪs ˌdefɛkˈtɛərɪə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
are gray with brown shading, particularly along the wing margins and areas. The pattern is relatively subdued compared to more boldly marked geometrids. Identification to from photographs alone can be difficult; many specimens submitted to identification platforms remain at level. The species is one of approximately 30 in the genus Iridopsis in North America, most of which require examination of genitalia or other subtle characters for definitive identification.
Images
Habitat
Associated with wooded and semi-open across its range. are frequently attracted to artificial lights in residential and rural settings. Specific larval plant associations are not well documented in the provided sources.
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: from Pennsylvania west to Iowa and Kansas, south to Texas, and south and east to Florida. Present in Vermont and throughout the eastern United States.
Seasonality
have been observed during National Week events in mid-July in Kansas, suggesting summer activity. Specific data beyond this observation is not available in the provided sources.
Behavior
are and attracted to light. They have been documented at blacklight stations in Kansas, where they were among the more readily identifiable in a diverse .
Human Relevance
Occasionally encountered by citizen scientists during -watching events such as National Moth Week. The is not known to be of economic importance.
Similar Taxa
- Other Iridopsis speciesApproximately 30 occur in North America, most requiring genitalia examination or subtle pattern differences for separation; many specimens cannot be determined to species from images alone.
- Other gray geometrids in EnnominaeSimilar subdued gray-brown coloration; precise identification often requires expert examination.