Catocala jessica

H. Edwards, 1877

Jessica underwing

Catocala jessica, commonly known as the Jessica underwing, is a in the Erebidae. First described by Henry Edwards in 1877, this is found in western and central North America. The species is named with the specific epithet "jessica" and is one of many underwing moths in the Catocala, which are characterized by their cryptically patterned forewings and brightly colored hindwings.

Catocala jessica by (c) Hawks DC, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Illustrations of typical specimens of Lepidoptera Heterocera in the collection of the British Museum (Pl. XLVI) (8726507904) by British Museum (Natural History).; Butler, Arthur G.; Hampson, George Francis. Used under a Public domain license.Catocala jessica (syn. babayaga) ENT 564872 D by Baucom, K. M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala jessica: //ˌkætəˈkeɪlə ˈdʒɛsɪkə//

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Identification

Distinguished from other Catocala by geographic distribution and association with Populus and Salix plants. Specific wing pattern details distinguishing C. jessica from similar underwing species are not documented in available sources. Genitalia dissection may be required for definitive identification from closely related species.

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Appearance

Wingspan approximately 75 mm. Forewings are cryptically patterned, typical of underwing moths, providing camouflage against tree bark. Hindwings are concealed at rest and display bright coloration when exposed, a characteristic feature of the Catocala.

Habitat

Associated with riparian and woodland where plants Populus (poplars, cottonwoods) and Salix (willows) occur. Specific microhabitat preferences are not documented.

Distribution

Documented from Arizona through Colorado to Illinois and California. Distribution records indicate presence in western and central North America.

Seasonality

are on wing from June to October. There is probably one per year.

Diet

Larvae feed on Populus and Salix . feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Populus - larval food plantpoplars, cottonwoods
  • Salix - larval food plantwillows

Life Cycle

Probably one per year. Detailed stages and strategy are not documented.

Behavior

are . Specific behavioral traits such as attraction to light, patterns, or defensive are not documented.

Ecological Role

Larval herbivore on Populus and Salix. Specific ecological functions such as nutrient cycling or position are not documented.

Human Relevance

No documented economic or cultural significance. Not known to be a pest .

Similar Taxa

  • Other Catocala speciesShare the underwing with cryptic forewings and brightly colored hindwings; require careful examination for differentiation

More Details

Etymology

The specific epithet "jessica" is a Latinized given name. The etymology was not explicitly stated in the original description, but follows the pattern of many Catocala named after women.

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Sources and further reading