Nasusina mendicata
(Barnes & McDunnough, 1918)
Nasusina mendicata is a small geometrid described in 1918. It is restricted to coastal and central California. The is among the smallest geometrids in its range, with a wingspan of approximately 12 mm. activity spans spring through late summer, with an additional October record.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nasusina mendicata: /nɑːˈsuːsɪnə mɛnˈdɪkɑːtə/
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Identification
Identifiable by its extremely small size (12 mm wingspan) combined with its California coastal distribution. Distinguished from other western North American Nasusina by geographic range; N. mendicata is the only species in the confirmed from the California coast north of the Transverse Ranges. Specific wing patterns require examination of type material or additional sources.
Appearance
Wingspan approximately 12 mm. Specific pattern and coloration details are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Coastal and interior regions of central and southern California. Specific microhabitat preferences are undocumented.
Distribution
to California, USA. Documented from southern and central California coastal areas, extending north to Sonoma and Napa counties.
Seasonality
recorded March through August, with an additional October record. Multi-brooded or extended period likely, though specific number is undocumented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Nasusina speciesWestern North American occur in different regions; N. mendicata is distinguished by its coastal California distribution and small size, though detailed morphological comparisons require examination.
- Small Larentiinae in CaliforniaNumerous small geometrids occur in the same region; definitive identification requires genitalia examination or reference to original description.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Original description by Barnes & McDunnough in 1918. No subsequent taxonomic revisions or subspecific classifications have been published.