Dichorda
Warren, 1900
Dichorda is a of emerald in the , Geometrinae. The genus was erected by Warren in 1900 and currently contains nine recognized distributed primarily in North America. Species such as Dichorda iridaria (showy emerald moth) are known for their distinctive green coloration and are attracted to ultraviolet light at night. The genus is part of the diverse Geometridae family, commonly known as inchworm or .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichorda: /daɪˈkɔr.də/
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Identification
Members of Dichorda can be distinguished from other Geometrinae by their characteristic emerald green coloration, typical of many geometrid . Dichorda iridaria, the showy emerald moth, has been observed at ultraviolet light stations and can be identified by its green with subtle patterning. The genus is distinguished from similar emerald moths in related genera by genitalic characters and subtle wing pattern differences, though precise identification to often requires examination of these morphological features.
Images
Habitat
in this have been recorded from diverse including restored tallgrass prairie remnants, dry-mesic upland oak-hickory forests, and areas with Quercus (oak) species. Dichorda iridaria has been observed in Missouri Ozark prairie remnants with mixed forest and grassland vegetation.
Distribution
North America, with records from the United States including Vermont, Missouri, and other states. The appears to have a primarily Nearctic distribution.
Seasonality
activity has been observed in late summer and early fall. Dichorda iridaria was recorded in late August at ultraviolet light in Missouri.
Host Associations
- Quercus stellata - larval post oak foliage
- Quercus marilandica - larval blackjack oak foliage
- Carya tomentosa - larval mockernut hickory foliage
- Juglans nigra - larval black walnut foliage
- Prunus serotina - larval black cherry foliage
Behavior
are and attracted to ultraviolet light sources. are foliage feeders on various hardwood trees and shrubs.
Ecological Role
function as on deciduous trees and shrubs, contributing to in forest and woodland . serve as for and may contribute to .
Human Relevance
The showy emerald (Dichorda iridaria) is of interest to and naturalists for its attractive appearance. The is documented in surveys and contributes to understanding of North moth diversity. No significant economic impact is known.
Similar Taxa
- NemoriaSimilar emerald green coloration and Geometrinae membership; distinguished by pattern and genitalic characters
- SynchloraAnother North emerald with green ; requires examination of and for separation
- ChlorochlamysSmall emerald geometrids with similar preferences; distinguished by size and pattern details
More Details
Species Diversity
The contains nine described : Dichorda iris (Butler, 1881), Dichorda obliquata Warren, 1904, Dichorda porphyropis Prout, 1925, Dichorda consequaria (H. Edwards, 1884), Dichorda illustraria (Hulst, 1886), Dichorda iridaria (Guenée, 1857), Dichorda rectaria (Grote, 1877), Dichorda rhodocephala Prout, 1916, and Dichorda uniformis Warren, 1909.
Research History
The has been documented in studies using ultraviolet light trapping methods. iNaturalist records indicate over 4,600 observations, suggesting it is relatively well-documented by citizen scientists.