Eupithecia sharronata
Bolte, 1990
Eupithecia sharronata is a small in the Geometridae, described by Bolte in 1990. It is known from multiple Canadian provinces and has been documented as a visitor to apple flowers, contributing to pollination. The belongs to the diverse 'pug' Eupithecia, whose members are recognized by their narrow wings and characteristic resting posture.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eupithecia sharronata: /juːˈpɪθiə ʃəˈrɒnətə/
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Identification
Members of Eupithecia are recognized by their narrow wings and unique resting posture with wings held flat. Positive identification of E. sharronata to level requires examination of genitalia or other specialized characters, as is typical for this . Distinguishing this species from other North American Eupithecia requires expert taxonomic analysis.
Appearance
As a member of the Eupithecia, this has narrow, elongated wings and a slender body typical of 'pug' . are small, with wings held flat or slightly folded at rest. Specific coloration and pattern details for E. sharronata are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Specific preferences for this are not documented. The Eupithecia is generally associated with diverse habitats including forests, shrublands, and areas where larval plants occur.
Distribution
Documented from North America, specifically the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Ontario. No records from the United States have been confirmed in available sources.
Seasonality
have been recorded on wing from May to August, based on collection records.
Diet
Larvae feed on Salix (willow) . feeding habits are not specifically documented for this species, though Eupithecia adults have been observed visiting flowers for nectar.
Host Associations
- Salix - larval plantLarval food source; specific Salix not identified
Life Cycle
Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Specific details of the for this are not documented.
Behavior
are and attracted to light. A Eupithecia identified as this was photographed visiting apple flowers at night, indicating potential nocturnal foraging .
Ecological Role
Larvae function as herbivores on willow foliage. may contribute to pollination services; a specimen was documented as a visitor to apple flowers in an Arkansas orchard study, though the extent of its pollination effectiveness is not quantified.
Human Relevance
Has been observed visiting apple flowers in commercial orchards, suggesting potential role in pollination of agricultural crops. Not known to be a pest .
Similar Taxa
- Other Eupithecia speciesAll members of the share narrow wings and similar resting posture; -level identification requires expert examination of genitalia or other microscopic characters
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Bolte in 1990; relatively recently described with limited published natural history information