Drasteria
Hübner, 1818
Drasteria is a of in the Erebidae. in this genus are known for their concealed brightly-colored , 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//
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Identification
Members of Drasteria can be recognized by their cryptic that conceal brightly-colored , typically orange, red, or with dark markings. This startle display distinguishes them from similar cryptic . Specific identification to often requires examination of 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 to momentarily startle before taking . The are held flat over the body at rest, completely concealing the hindwings.
Similar Taxa
- CatocalaBoth are with concealed brightly-colored used for startle defense; () are generally larger and have more elongated .
- EuscirrhopterusShares the startle defense with concealed colorful ; Euscirrhopterus tend to be smaller with different patterns.