Cosymbiini
Genus Guides
3- Cyclophora(Mochas)
- Pleuroprucha
- Semaeopus
Cosymbiini is a tribe of geometer moths within the Geometridae, containing approximately 515 described distributed across 11 confirmed . Five additional genera with roughly 170 species are tentatively associated with the tribe pending further taxonomic clarification. The tribe includes the well-known genus Cyclophora, which encompasses many species previously placed in Anisodes. Cosymbiini are primarily tropical and subtropical in distribution.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cosymbiini: /ˌkɒsɪmˈbiː.aɪ.naɪ/
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Identification
Members of Cosymbiini can be difficult to distinguish from other geometrid tribes without examination of genitalic structures. The Cyclophora, the largest and most studied in the tribe, is characterized by broad, often rounded forewings with wavy or scalloped margins and relatively simple, transverse wing patterns. in related genera such as Perixera and Pleuroprucha often show more angular wing shapes. Definitive tribal assignment requires molecular or detailed morphological analysis due to historical taxonomic uncertainty.
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Distribution
Predominantly tropical and subtropical regions, with greatest diversity in the Neotropics, Afrotropics, and Indo-Malayan regions. Specific range limits for the tribe as a whole are poorly documented due to incomplete sampling and taxonomic revision needs.
Similar Taxa
- Sterrhinae (subfamily)Cosymbiini has been historically classified within Sterrhinae, and shares the broad-winged, relatively delicate build typical of that group. Modern classifications sometimes place Cosymbiini in Ennominae or as incertae sedis within Geometridae, creating confusion with true Sterrhinae.
- CaberiniAnother geometrid tribe with similar wing patterns and overlapping geographic ranges. Caberini often have more pronounced discal spots and straighter wing margins than typical Cosymbiini.
More Details
Taxonomic uncertainty
The tribal placement of Cosymbiini remains contentious. The five listed as 'uncertain association' (Hemipterodes, Lipotaxia, Prasinochrysa, Semaeopus, Trygodes) require further study to confirm or reject their inclusion in Cosymbiini. This uncertainty reflects broader challenges in geometrid .
iNaturalist observations
The tribe has accumulated over 79,000 research-grade observations on iNaturalist, indicating substantial citizen science engagement, though many identifications may be provisional to or level due to identification difficulties.