Bandelia
Lindsey, 1923
Species Guides
1Bandelia is a of established by Lindsey in 1923, currently classified in the Erebidae. The genus contains two described : Bandelia angulata and Bandelia dimera. Its taxonomic placement has been revised multiple times, having previously been assigned to Phytometrinae within Erebidae or Acontiinae within Noctuidae. The genus is known from North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bandelia: /bænˈdiːliə/
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Identification
Bandelia can be distinguished from related acontiine by the combination of their angular forewing pattern (particularly pronounced in B. angulata) and reduced hindwing venation. The is characterized by forewings with a somewhat triangular shape and a distinct pattern of dark and light markings. B. angulata and B. dimera differ in wing pattern details and geographic distribution.
Distribution
The is recorded from North America. Bandelia angulata occurs in the southwestern United States, while Bandelia dimera has been documented from southern Texas and adjacent Mexico.
Similar Taxa
- AcontiaBoth were formerly placed in Acontiinae and share similar forewing shapes, but Acontia typically exhibits more rounded wing margins and lacks the pronounced angular patterning of Bandelia.
- SpragueiaSimilar small size and habit, but Spragueia generally show more uniform ground coloration and different wing venation.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The classification of Bandelia has been unstable. Catalogue of Life currently places it in Noctuidae > Acontiinae, while NCBI and iNaturalist recognize it in Erebidae. This discrepancy reflects ongoing revisions in noctuoid classification, particularly the elevation of former noctuid to rank within Erebidae.
Species rarity
Both described appear to be rarely encountered, with fewer than 30 iNaturalist observations for the entire . This may reflect genuine rarity, limited survey effort, or habits that reduce detection.