Crambidia

Packard, 1864

Species Guides

8

Crambidia is a of lichen moths in the Erebidae, tribe Lithosiini. The genus was established by Packard in 1864 and contains approximately 13 described . Species in this genus are characterized by pale, often whitish or cream-colored wings with relatively simple patterning. They are distributed primarily in North America.

Crambidia uniformis by (c) David George, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by David George. Used under a CC-BY license.Crambidia by (c) Ken-ichi Ueda, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ken-ichi Ueda. Used under a CC-BY license.Crambidia pallida SERC 06-06-15 095 (19088417511) by Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Crambidia: /kræmˈbɪdiə/

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Identification

of Crambidia can be recognized by their pale, often white or cream-colored wings that are typically unmarked or bear only subtle patterning. The belongs to the lichen tribe Lithosiini, whose members often have slender bodies and relatively broad wings compared to body size. Specific identification to species level requires examination of genitalia or detailed wing pattern characteristics.

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Habitat

Associated with forested and wooded where lichens grow on trees and rocks; specific microhabitat preferences vary by .

Distribution

North America; records from the United States including Vermont, with distributed across eastern and central regions of the continent.

Diet

Larvae feed on lichens growing on trees and rocks.

Ecological Role

Larvae contribute to nutrient cycling through lichen consumption; may serve as prey for insectivorous birds and bats.

Similar Taxa

  • LithosiaAlso in tribe Lithosiini with pale coloration; Crambidia often have more uniform wing coloration without the distinct spotting seen in some Lithosia
  • EilemaSimilar pale lichen moths; Crambidia typically lacks the yellowish or ochre tones common in many Eilema

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Sources and further reading