Catocala similis

Edwards, W.H., 1864

Similar Underwing

similis, commonly known as the similar underwing, is a in the Erebidae first described by William Henry Edwards in 1864. The species is characterized by its cryptic that conceal brightly patterned , a trait common to the Catocala. are active during late spring and early summer across eastern North America, with feeding on specific hardwood trees.

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Catocala similis 41679595 by CK Kelly. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala similis: /ˌkætoʊˈkɑːlə ˈsɪmɪlɪs/

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Identification

As an , similis possesses dull-colored that serve as when at rest, hiding the more vivid patterns beneath. The can be distinguished from other Catocala species by specific pattern characteristics, though precise diagnostic features require expert examination. The wingspan ranges from 35–45 mm. The specific epithet "similis" suggests resemblance to other species, indicating potential identification challenges with closely related underwings.

Images

Habitat

Associated with supporting its larval plants, including areas with hickory and oak . The species occurs in eastern deciduous forest and adjacent environments where Carya illinoinensis (pecan) and Quercus stellata (post oak) grow.

Distribution

Eastern North America, ranging from Ontario and Quebec south through Maine and Connecticut to Florida, westward to Texas and Oklahoma, and north to Minnesota.

Seasonality

are on from May to July, with timing varying by location. The appears to have one per year.

Diet

feed on Carya illinoinensis (pecan) and Quercus stellata (post oak). feeding habits are not documented in available sources.

Host Associations

Carya illinoinensis - larval pecan
Quercus stellata - larval post oak

Life Cycle

The likely undergoes with , larval, pupal, and stages typical of . Available information indicates one per year, though detailed documentation is limited.

Ecological Role

function as on hardwood trees. may contribute to , though specific ecological roles are not well documented. As with other , they likely serve as for various including birds, bats, and .

Similar Taxa

Other Catocala speciesThe "similar underwing" and specific epithet "similis" indicate close resemblance to other in the , requiring careful examination of patterns and other morphological features for accurate identification.

More Details

Taxonomic history

First described by William Henry Edwards in 1864, a prominent known for his work on and of North America.

Genus characteristics

The name is derived from Greek meaning "beautiful below," referring to the striking patterns concealed by cryptic at rest.