Eupithecia zelmira

Swett & Cassino, 1920

Eupithecia zelmira is a small geometrid described by Swett and Cassino in 1920. It occurs in the western United States, specifically Oregon and California. are active across an unusually broad period, with records from February through July and again in December. The has been documented visiting apple flowers, contributing to services.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eupithecia zelmira: /juːˈpɪθiə ˈzɛlmɪrə/

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Identification

Members of Eupithecia are recognized by their narrow and distinctive resting posture. Specific identification of E. zelmira likely requires examination of , as is common for this where external among is often similar.

Distribution

Found in the US states of Oregon and California.

Seasonality

have been recorded on from February to July and in December, indicating potential or activity with possible adults.

Behavior

are attracted to light. Has been observed visiting apple flowers at night, indicating nectar-feeding and participation in .

Ecological Role

Documented as a visitor to apple flowers, contributing to nighttime of fruit . This dual role as a potential has been observed in related Eupithecia in agricultural settings.

Human Relevance

Observed in apple orchards where it may provide services, though its economic significance relative to other has not been quantified.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Eupithecia speciesMany 'pug' share narrow and similar resting posture; -level identification typically requires examination.
  • Other Geometridae in Larentiinae members may share similar size and general appearance, but Eupithecia is distinguished by its characteristic shape and posture.

More Details

Pollination Record

A Eupithecia photographed on apple flower in Arkansas was identified as potentially E. zelmira or a in a 2021 study on , though the specific identification was not confirmed.

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Sources and further reading