Lycomorpha splendens
Barnes & McDunnough, 1912
Lycomorpha splendens is a small in the Erebidae, described in 1912. It occurs in the southwestern United States and adjacent regions. are active from late spring through early autumn. The belongs to a known for participating in mimicry complexes with net-winged beetles.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lycomorpha splendens: /ˌlaɪ.kəˈmɔːr.fə ˈsplɛnd.ɛnz/
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Identification
The can be distinguished from the similar Lycomorpha pholus by : L. pholus appear in late summer, while L. splendens is active from May to October. Geographic range also differs, with L. splendens restricted to the southwestern United States.
Appearance
Forewing length 12–15 mm. Specific color pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
Southwestern North America: Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah.
Seasonality
on wing from May to October.
Ecological Role
Member of a Müllerian mimicry complex involving net-winged beetles ( Lycidae), particularly Calopteron terminale. Both the and the model are aposematic and contain defensive compounds.
Similar Taxa
- Lycomorpha pholusSimilar black-and-yellow coloration, but distinguished by later (late summer) and broader eastern distribution
- Pyromorpha dimidiataUnrelated in Zygaenidae with similar appearance and shared participation in lycid mimicry complex; distinguished by black hind margin of forewing
More Details
Mimicry complex membership
Lycomorpha participate in a Müllerian mimicry ring centered on lycid beetles. Unlike some mimics that are palatable, members of this complex are themselves chemically defended.