Catocala frederici

Grote, 1872

Catocala frederici is a of underwing in the Erebidae, first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1872. It belongs to the Catocala, a diverse group of moths known for their cryptic forewings that conceal brightly patterned hindwings. The species occurs in the southwestern United States and is active during the summer months.

CATALOGUE-BM-PLATE CXCV by Sir GEORGE F. HAMPSON, Bart.. Used under a Public domain license.

Catocala frederici NMSUACP0065134 D by NMSU. Used under a CC0 license.

Catocala frederici NMSUACP0065134 V by NMSU. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala frederici: /ˌkætəˈkeɪlə frɪˈdɛrɪkaɪ/

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

Identification

Distinguished from other Catocala by geographic range (southwestern U.S.) and specific wing pattern details. Identification to species level typically requires examination of hindwing coloration and pattern, as well as genitalia dissection for definitive determination. Similar to other underwing moths in general and resting posture with forewings held together over the back.

Images

Habitat

Specific preferences not documented. Based on characteristics and regional occurrence, likely associated with wooded or forested areas where plants for larvae occur. The related observation context from New Mexico describes dry, mixed conifer forest with oaks at 7,000 feet elevation as suitable habitat for underwing moths generally.

Distribution

United States: Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Arizona.

Seasonality

active from June to September, with timing varying by location. Probably one per year.

Behavior

are and attracted to light, though underwing moths typically remain on the periphery of lighted areas rather than landing directly on sheets. They have been observed flushed from daytime resting sites on tree trunks.

Ecological Role

likely serve as and as prey for including bats, birds, and spiders. Larval ecological role unknown due to lack of documented plant associations.

Human Relevance

Subject of citizen science observation during National Week and similar moth-focused events. Of interest to lepidopterists and moth enthusiasts for its contribution to regional biodiversity documentation.

Similar Taxa

Catocala epioneAnother underwing with similar size range and general ; distinguished by specific hindwing pattern and different geographic distribution (eastern and central North America, with some overlap in range).
Catocala amestrisSimilar underwing with cryptic forewings and patterned hindwings; distinguished by hindwing coloration (orange and black bands) and more northerly and westerly distribution.
Catocala aholibahLarger underwing with similar resting posture and general appearance; distinguished by larger size and specific hindwing pattern with orange and black coloration.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Originally described by Grote in 1872. The Catocala was formerly placed in Noctuidae but is now classified in Erebidae based on molecular phylogenetic studies.

Etymology

Specific epithet 'frederici' likely honors an individual, though the exact namesake is not documented in available sources.

Observation Notes

Based on iNaturalist data, the has relatively few documented observations (54 records), suggesting it may be genuinely uncommon, underreported, or difficult to identify from photographs alone.