Phrudocentra centrifugaria
(Herrich-Schäffer, 1870)
Brown-spotted Emerald
Phrudocentra centrifugaria is a of emerald moth in the Geometridae, commonly known as the Brown-spotted Emerald. It occurs in the Caribbean and North America. The species is recognized by the Hodges number 7051 in North American classification systems. Five have been described, showing variation in spotting patterns across its range.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phrudocentra centrifugaria: //ˌfruː.doʊˈsɛn.trə ˌsɛn.trɪˈfjuː.ɡeɪ.ri.ə//
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Identification
As a member of the Geometrinae (emerald moths), likely exhibit green coloration typical of the . The nominate and its variants differ in spotting: subspecies punctata and impunctata suggest presence or absence of distinct spots, while heterospila indicates variable spotting patterns. Specific diagnostic features require examination of wing pattern and genitalia.
Images
Distribution
Caribbean Sea region and North America. GBIF records confirm presence in both the Caribbean and North America.
Similar Taxa
- Other Phrudocentra speciesCongeneric share the Geometrinae body plan and green coloration; precise identification requires examination of wing pattern details and genitalia.
- Other Geometrinae (emerald moths)The Geometrinae contains many green-colored ; Phrudocentra centrifugaria may be distinguished by its specific spotting patterns and geographic range.
More Details
Subspecies
Five are recognized: P. c. centrifugaria (nominate), P. c. heterospila Hampson 1904, P. c. impunctata Warren 1909, P. c. punctata Warren 1904, and P. c. stellataria Möschler 1886. These names suggest variation in spotting (punctata/impunctata) and pattern (heterospila, stellataria).
Taxonomic authority
First described by Herrich-Schäffer in 1870. The has been subject to multiple descriptions in the early 1900s, indicating morphological variation across its Caribbean-North American range.