Eupithecia pertusata
McDunnough, 1938
Eupithecia pertusata is a small in the Geometridae, commonly known as pug moths. It is restricted to the southwestern United States, occurring in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. The has a wingspan of approximately 17 mm. Like other Eupithecia species, it is and has been documented visiting flowers, contributing to nighttime pollination services.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eupithecia pertusata: //juːˌpɪθ.iˈsiː.ə pərˈtuːˌseɪ.tə//
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Identification
Members of the Eupithecia are recognized by their narrow wings and distinctive resting posture. Definitive identification of E. pertusata to level requires examination of genitalia or other microscopic characters, as is typical for this large and morphologically similar genus. The species is geographically restricted to the southwestern United States, which helps narrow identification possibilities.
Appearance
Small with narrow wings and a wingspan of approximately 17 mm. As a member of the Eupithecia, it likely exhibits the characteristic 'pug' moth resting posture with wings held flat or slightly folded. Specific coloration and pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Found in dry, mixed conifer forest with oaks at elevations around 7,000 feet, based on documented occurrence in similar in New Mexico. The is attracted to artificial lights at night.
Distribution
to the southwestern United States: south-western Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Behavior
; attracted to blacklights and artificial lighting. Has been observed visiting apple flowers at night, contributing to nocturnal pollination activity.
Ecological Role
Documented as a , with photographic evidence of visiting apple flowers. The contributes to nighttime pollination services in its .
Human Relevance
Potential of agricultural crops, including apple. No known negative impacts.
Similar Taxa
- Other Eupithecia speciesOver 150 Eupithecia occur in North America, many requiring genital dissection for definitive identification. Geographic restriction to the southwestern U.S. helps distinguish E. pertusata from most other species.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Eupithecia is one of the largest of in North America, with many requiring expert examination for identification.
Pollination research
A Eupithecia photographed on apple flower was featured in a 2021 Journal of Economic Entomology study on pollination in apple production, though the specific was not identified in the publication.