Odontoptila obrimo
(Druce, 1892)
Orbed Wave
Odontoptila obrimo, known as the Orbed Wave, is the sole in the Odontoptila. This geometrid is found from the southern United States through Central America. It belongs to the Sterrhinae, a group commonly referred to as waves due to their characteristic wing patterns.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Odontoptila obrimo: /oʊˌdɒn.toʊˌptaɪ.lə oʊˈbraɪ.moʊ/
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Identification
Distinguished from other wave moths (Sterrhinae) by the prominent circular or orb-shaped marking on the forewing. The combination of rounded wing shape and toothed margins separates it from similar geometrids in the region.
Images
Appearance
have rounded forewings with a distinctive circular or orb-like marking, giving rise to the . The wings are generally pale with wavy transverse lines. The name Odontoptila refers to toothed wing margins visible in some specimens.
Distribution
Southern United States through Mexico and Central America. Records extend from Texas and Arizona southward through the Mesoamerican region.
Similar Taxa
- Other Sterrhinae (wave moths)Similar wavy wing patterns, but lack the distinctive orb-shaped forewing marking of Odontoptila obrimo.
- Idaea spp.Share pale coloration and wavy lines, but have more angular wings and different pattern elements.
More Details
Monotypic genus
Odontoptila is one of the few in Geometridae, with O. obrimo as its only described . This suggests either a highly specialized or incomplete taxonomic sampling of the group.
Historical taxonomy
The was originally described by Druce in 1892, with the established by Warren in 1897 based on distinctive wing .