Virbia rubicundaria
(Hübner, 1831)
ruddy holomelina, black-banded holomelina, least holomelina
Virbia rubicundaria is a small in the Erebidae, commonly known as the ruddy holomelina. It occurs along the southeastern United States coast from Georgia to eastern Texas. are active throughout the year with multiple . The is among the smallest in its .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Virbia rubicundaria: //ˈvɪr.bi.ə ˌruː.bɪˈkʌn.də.ri.ə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Virbia by its small size— length under 9 mm makes it one of the smallest in the . The 'black-banded holomelina' suggests a dark transverse on the , though this requires verification. Geographic range along the Gulf Coast may help separate it from similar species with more northern or inland distributions.
Images
Appearance
Small with length approximately 8.9 mm in males and 8.7 mm in females. The specific coloration and pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
Southeastern United States: Georgia, Florida, and along the Gulf Coast to eastern Texas.
Seasonality
are on year-round with multiple per year.
Diet
have been reared on dandelion (Taraxacum) and Lactuca floridana (Florida lettuce). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Taraxacum - larval dandelion
- Lactuca floridana - larval Florida lettuce
Life Cycle
Multiple per year. Specific details of , larval, and pupal stages are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Virbia speciesV. rubicundaria is distinguished by its notably smaller size; most are larger with lengths exceeding 9 mm.
More Details
Basionym
Originally described as Crocota rubicundaria by in 1831 before transfer to Virbia.