Catocala texanae

French, 1902

Texan Underwing

Catocala texanae, the Texan Underwing, is a in the Erebidae described by George Hazen French in 1902. It is to Texas, with active from May to June. Like other underwing moths, it likely exhibits the characteristic resting posture with cryptic forewings concealing brightly patterned hindwings.

Catocala texanae by (c) Hawks DC, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Catocala texanae YPM ENT 719311 V by Yale Peabody Museum. Used under a CC0 license.Catocala texanae YPM ENT 719311 D by Yale Peabody Museum. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala texanae: /ˈkætəkɑlə ˈtɛksəneɪ/

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Identification

As a member of the Catocala, this possesses the defining underwing trait: dull, bark-mimicking forewings that conceal vividly colored hindwings. Specific identification features for C. texanae are not documented in available sources. Separation from other Catocala species likely requires examination of hindwing pattern and genitalia.

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Distribution

to Texas, United States. Distribution records indicate presence in North America.

Seasonality

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

Life Cycle

; likely one per year based on period.

Behavior

Like other underwing moths, may be reluctant to come directly to lights, sometimes remaining on the periphery of illuminated areas or in nearby vegetation.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Catocala speciesShare the underwing with cryptic forewings and colorful hindwings; require detailed examination of pattern and genitalia for differentiation.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Described by George Hazen French in 1902. The Catocala was formerly placed in Noctuidae but is now classified in Erebidae.

Research Status

This has received limited study; basic information including larval plants and stages remains undocumented.

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Sources and further reading