Drasteria convergens

Mustelin, 2006

Drasteria convergens is a of in the Erebidae, first described from the San Bernardino Mountains in California. It is a relatively small moth with a wingspan of approximately 42 mm. The species belongs to a known for owlet moths that often employ startle defense tactics with concealed brightly-colored hindwings.

Drasteria convergens male by Crabo LG, Davis M, Hammond P, Mustelin T, Shepard J. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Drasteria convergens: //dræsˈtɛriə kənˈvɜːrdʒɛnz//

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Identification

Can be distinguished from other Drasteria by its specific wing pattern and size. The species name "convergens" may refer to convergent wing markings, though detailed diagnostic features require examination of . Separation from the similar-sounding convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens) is straightforward based on order: this is a (Lepidoptera), not a (Coleoptera).

Images

Distribution

Known from the San Bernardino Mountains in California. GBIF records indicate presence in North America, though specific range details beyond the type locality are sparse.

Similar Taxa

Drasteria mirificaAnother member of the same found in similar regions, also employing startle defense with brightly colored hindwings
Hippodamia convergensShares the specific epithet 'convergens' but is a lady beetle (Coleoptera), not a ; easily distinguished by order-level characteristics

More Details

Taxonomic note

Described by Mustelin in 2006, making it a relatively recently described . The Drasteria is part of the Erebinae within Erebidae.

Etymology

The specific epithet 'convergens' likely refers to converging or convergent markings on the wings, though this interpretation is speculative without examination of the original description.