Scopula ordinata
(Walker, 1861)
Scopula ordinata is a in the Geometridae, described by Francis Walker in 1861. It is distributed across southeastern and midwestern North America, with recorded occurrences in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Tennessee. The larvae feed specifically on Trillium catesbaei (Catesby's trillium), a wildflower native to the southeastern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Scopula ordinata: /ˈskɔ.pu.la ɔr.diˈna.ta/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Distribution
Southeastern and midwestern United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Records indicate presence in the Atlantic coastal plain, Gulf coastal plain, and western Appalachian regions.
Diet
Larvae feed on Trillium catesbaei (Catesby's trillium). feeding habits are not documented in available sources.
Host Associations
- Trillium catesbaei - larval food plant wildflower in the Melanthiaceae, native to southeastern United States
Similar Taxa
- Scopula limboundataBoth are North American Scopula with similar wing patterns; S. limboundata has broader, more distinctly scalloped wing margins and feeds on different plants
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described by Francis Walker in 1861. The name 'ordinata' (Latin for 'ordered' or 'arranged') may refer to the regular patterning of the wings.
Conservation considerations
Dependence on Trillium catesbaei as a larval may limit distribution to areas where this plant occurs, potentially making vulnerable to loss affecting trillium populations.