Drasteria
Hübner, 1818
Species Guides
27- Drasteria adumbrata(Shadowy Arches)
- Drasteria biformata
- Drasteria convergens
- Drasteria divergens
- Drasteria edwardsii
- Drasteria eubapta
- Drasteria fumosa(Smoky Arches)
- Drasteria grandirena(Figure-seven Moth)
- Drasteria graphica(Graphic Moth)
Drasteria is a of owlet moths in the Erebidae. in this genus are known for their concealed brightly-colored hindwings, which they flash as a startle defense against . The genus includes multiple species distributed across North America and other regions, with some taxonomic revisions having occurred in recent decades.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Drasteria: //dræˈstɛɹiə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Drasteria can be recognized by their cryptic forewings that conceal brightly-colored hindwings, typically orange, red, or yellow with dark markings. This startle display distinguishes them from similar cryptic . Specific identification to often requires examination of wing pattern details and geographic location.
Images
Distribution
North America (including Colorado, Vermont), with records also from Mongolia and other regions.
Behavior
exhibit a startle defense tactic: when disturbed, they flash their brightly-colored hindwings to momentarily startle before taking . The forewings are held flat over the body at rest, completely concealing the hindwings.
Similar Taxa
- CatocalaBoth are owlet moths with concealed brightly-colored hindwings used for startle defense; Catocala (underwing moths) are generally larger and have more elongated forewings.
- EuscirrhopterusShares the startle defense with concealed colorful hindwings; Euscirrhopterus tend to be smaller with different forewing patterns.