Phalaenostola hanhami
Smith, 1899
Hanham's Owlet, Hanham's Snout Moth
Phalaenostola hanhami is a small litter moth in the Herminiinae. have a wingspan of 22–25 mm and are active from June to August. The was first described by J. B. Smith in 1899. It occurs across northern North America from the Atlantic to the Canadian prairies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phalaenostola hanhami: //ˌfælɪnəˈstoʊlə ˈhænˌhæmi//
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Identification
Small size (22–25 mm wingspan) and summer period (June–August) help distinguish this from some . Specific diagnostic characters for separating P. hanhami from other Phalaenostola species are not detailed in available sources. Genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification.
Habitat
Associated with forest floor environments as a member of the litter moth group (Herminiinae). Specific preferences have not been documented.
Distribution
North America: Nova Scotia west across Canada to central Alberta, south to Massachusetts and New York. Records confirmed from Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
Seasonality
active June to August.
Ecological Role
Member of the forest floor ; specific ecological functions have not been studied.
Similar Taxa
- Other Phalaenostola speciesSimilar size and ; require examination of genitalia or detailed wing pattern analysis for separation
More Details
Etymology
Specific epithet 'hanhami' honors an individual, though the exact namesake is not documented in available sources.
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Philometra hanhami by Smith in 1899, later transferred to Phalaenostola.