Ourapterygini
Bruand d'Uzelle, 1846
Genus Guides
38- Acanthotoca
- Antepione(variable antepione)
- Besma
- Caripeta(brown pine looper)
- Cingilia(Chain-dotted Geometer)
- Destutia
- Enypia(girdle moths)
- Eriplatymetra
- Euaspilates
Ourapterygini is a large tribe of geometer moths within the Ennominae, described in 1846. The tribe is particularly diverse in the Neotropics and is considered the youngest tribe of its subfamily based on phylogenetic evidence. Members are distinguished by characteristic asymmetrical processes of the anellus, a derived trait present at least seasonally. Many exhibit -like appearance and partially , with conspicuous coloration that may serve as aposematic warning signals.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ourapterygini: /ˌaʊrəpˌtɛrɪˈdʒaɪnaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Asymmetrical processes of the anellus serve as a key diagnostic feature, though these may be present only seasonally. -like appearance, light yellowish coloration, and bold or reduced patterning distinguish many members from typical cryptic geometrid moths. Partial diurnality is unusual for the and may aid field recognition. Definitive identification requires examination of genitalic structures.
Images
Appearance
Many members are remarkably -like in overall appearance. Coloration tends toward light yellowish hues with either minimal pattern or quite bold markings, making some conspicuous rather than cryptic. Wing patterns vary from plain to striking. The tribe exhibits characteristic apomorphic asymmetrical processes of the anellus, at least seasonally. Body form and wing shape contribute to the non-typical, non-cryptic appearance for geometer moths.
Distribution
Particularly plentiful in the Neotropics. Broader distribution beyond this region is not clearly documented in available sources.
Seasonality
Characteristic anellus processes are present at least seasonally, suggesting seasonal variation in or reproductive structures.
Behavior
Contains more partially than is typical for geometer moths. At least some species are known to be noxious to .
Similar Taxa
- Other Ennominae tribesOurapterygini is distinguished by asymmetrical anellus processes and is considered the youngest tribe of the ; other tribes generally lack these specific genitalic features and typically exhibit cryptic coloration rather than the conspicuous patterns seen in many Ourapterygini.
- Other GeometridaeMost geometer moths exhibit cryptic coloration and ; Ourapterygini are frequently conspicuously colored and partially , with -like appearance.
More Details
Taxonomic status
Numerous Ennominae have not yet been assigned to a tribe, so genus lists for Ourapterygini remain preliminary.