Ctenucha

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Noctuoidea
Family: Erebidae
Subfamily: Arctiinae
Tribe: Arctiini
Subtribe: Ctenuchina
Genus: Ctenucha

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ctenucha: //tɛˈnuːkə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Ctenucha venosa (9934327686) by Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Ctenucha virginica male by Jacy Lucier. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Red-shouldered Ctenucha Moth by Themom51. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Ctenucha venosa (19077760459) by Graham Wise from Brisbane, Australia. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Virginia Ctenucha (Ctenucha virginica) (5910131242) by Aaron Carlson from Menomonie, WI, USA. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Ctenucha multifaria 3 by Maria Finegan. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Ctenucha is a genus of moths within the family Erebidae known for their vibrant appearances and colorful antennae. They are found across North America, particularly in specific elevations and regions. The genus includes multiple species, with varying habitats and identification challenges. Notable species include Ctenucha cressonana and Ctenucha virginica, among others.

Physical Characteristics

Ctenucha species are characterized by their colorful bodies and striking antennae, often described as having a comb-like appearance. Some species exhibit showy coloration, which may be an indicator of their mating success and species identification.

Identification Tips

Distinguishing Ctenucha venosa from Ctenucha cressonana can be challenging from photographs alone; however, noting the location and specific flight times can aid in identification. C. cressonana is known to have one flight from May to July and inhabits higher mountain elevations.

Habitat

Ctenucha moths inhabit a variety of environments, including mountainous areas where some species prefer higher elevations. They are also found in central and southern states of the US, as well as along the western coast.

Distribution

Ctenucha species are distributed across North America, with specific species found in regions from central California north to Canada, and different species noted in the northeastern United States and the southwestern states such as Arizona, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.

Diet

The larvae of Ctenucha moths typically feed on various types of vegetation, although specific dietary preferences may vary among species.

Evolution

The name Ctenucha comes from the Greek word meaning 'having a comb', reflecting the notable structure of their antennae and evolutionary adaptations related to mating.