Nacophorini

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Geometroidea
Family: Geometridae
Subfamily: Ennominae
Tribe: Nacophorini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Nacophorini: //ˌnækoʊˈfɔːrəˌnaɪ//

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

Images

Gabriola dyari1 by Donald Hobern. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Holochroa dissociarius, -26139, Det. John L. Sperry, Madera Canyon, Santa Rita Mountains, Arizona16 August 1949, John L. Sperry (49551419827) by Robb Hannawacker. Used under a Public domain license.

Thyrinteina arnobia 242953594 by Soetjipto Verkuijl. Used under a CC0 license.

CramerAndStoll-uitlandsche kapellen vol. 4- pl 383 by Pieter Cramer (1721 - 1776) and Caspar Stoll (between 1725 and 1730 - 1791). Used under a Public domain license.

Aidos amanda - CramerAndStoll-uitlandsche kapellen vol. 4- pl 383 (cropped) by Pieter Cramer (1721 - 1776) and Caspar Stoll (between 1725 and 1730 - 1791). Used under a Public domain license.

American Oak Beauty - Phaeoura quernaria, New Germany State Park, Grantsville, Maryland, June 9, 2023 (53321779632) by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Nacophorini is a tribe of geometer moths within the subfamily Ennominae, characterized by their robust bodies and unique male genitalia. They predominantly inhabit coniferous and hardwood environments and play a significant ecological role in their respective habitats.

Physical Characteristics

Nacophorini are generally robust and quite hairy geometer moths, though some species are more delicate. Many have slim wings, rest with hindwings tucked under forewings, possess long antennae with stout peg-shaped terminal sensillae, and typically have a well-developed 'horn' between antenna sockets. Males usually have swollen hindleg tibia and characteristics that serve in pheromone distribution.

Identification Tips

Look for long antennae, tucked hindwings, and robust or hairy bodies. Males may display swollen tibiae with hair tufts.

Habitat

Found in conifers, hardwood trees, and shrubs.

Distribution

Widespread in Australia and the Americas, with some genera tentatively placed in this tribe potentially indicating a Gondwanan distribution. Rare in Eurasia.

Diet

Larval food plants mainly from Rosidae, including Myrtaceae (e.g., Eucalyptus, Campomanesia, Eugenia), Faboideae, and Mimosoideae. Caterpillars may also feed on Cunoniaceae, Ericaceae, and others.

Ecosystem Role

Caterpillars can be significant pests, especially in eucalyptus plantations, impacting plant health.

Economic Impact

Some species, notably the Brazilian eucalyptus brown looper (Thyrinteina arnobia), are considered commercially significant pests in eucalyptus plantations.

Evolution

Traditionally nearly monophyletic with some taxa requiring reassignment. Close relationships with Azelinini, Ennomini, and possibly merging with Lithinini or Campaeini.