Catocala irene

Behr, 1870

Irene's underwing

Catocala irene, known as Irene's underwing, is a in the Erebidae first described by Hans Hermann Behr in 1870. It is found in the western United States, specifically in Utah, California, and Nevada. The has a wingspan of 65–75 mm and are active from July to September, with likely one per year. The larvae feed on Populus and Salix species.

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

Catocala irene YPM ENT 745270 V by Emory, F. M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Catocala irene YPM ENT 745270 D by Emory, F. M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala irene: /ˈkætəkələ ɪˈriːniː/

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

Identification

As an underwing in the Catocala, this can be recognized by the typical resting posture with forewings held together over the back, concealing the brightly patterned hindwings. Specific diagnostic features distinguishing C. irene from other Catocala species are not documented in available sources. Identification to species level likely requires examination of wing pattern details, genitalia, or geographic context given its restricted western U.S. range.

Images

Habitat

Specific preferences for this are not documented. Based on larval plants, it likely occurs in riparian areas, woodlands, and other habitats supporting Populus (poplar/cottonwood) and Salix (willow) species.

Distribution

Western United States: documented from Utah, California, and Nevada. The Catocala irene valeria occurs in Arizona.

Seasonality

are on wing from July to September, with timing varying by location. There is probably one per year.

Diet

Larvae feed on Populus and Salix (poplars/cottonwoods and willows). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

Populus - larval larvae feed on poplar/cottonwood
Salix - larval larvae feed on willow

Life Cycle

Probably (one per year). Specific details of , larval, pupal, and stages are not documented beyond adult period and larval associations.

Behavior

Typical underwing : rests with forewings folded over back, concealing hindwings; when disturbed, rapidly spreads wings to reveal brightly colored hindwings, likely as a startle defense. Specific behavioral observations for this are not documented.

Ecological Role

Larval stage functions as herbivore on woody plants (Populus, Salix). role in is not documented; may serve as or prey for . Specific ecological functions are not described in available sources.

Human Relevance

Not documented. As with many underwing moths, may be encountered by naturalists and enthusiasts. No known economic or agricultural significance.

Similar Taxa

Catocala amestrisAnother underwing found in western North America; distinguished by specific wing patterns and geographic distribution
Catocala delilahAnother underwing recorded from southern Colorado region; distinguished by wing patterns and range

More Details

Subspecies

Two are recognized: Catocala irene irene (nominate) and Catocala irene valeria H. Edwards, 1880, which occurs in Arizona.

Taxonomic history

First described by Hans Hermann Behr in 1870. The name Catocala is derived from Greek meaning 'beautiful below', referring to the striking hindwing patterns concealed beneath the cryptic forewings.