Zanclognatha atrilineella
Grote, 1873
Black-lined Fan-foot
Zanclognatha atrilineella is a small litter moth in the Erebidae, described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1873. It is commonly known as the Black-lined Fan-foot. The is restricted to the southeastern United States. have a wingspan of approximately 23 mm.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Zanclognatha atrilineella: /zæŋkloʊˈnɑːθə ætrɪˌlaɪnəˈlɛlə/
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Identification
The specific epithet 'atrilineella' (meaning 'black-lined') suggests diagnostic dark longitudinal wing lines. Distinguished from by combination of size, geographic range, and wing pattern. Precise identification requires examination of genitalia or comparison with reference specimens.
Images
Appearance
have a wingspan of approximately 23 mm. The 'Black-lined Fan-foot' refers to dark linear markings on the wings and the characteristic fan-like arrangement of the labial palps at rest.
Habitat
Occupies forest floor environments as a 'litter moth,' indicating association with leaf litter and ground-level vegetation in woodland .
Distribution
Southeastern United States. Records are sparse; precise range boundaries are poorly documented.
Similar Taxa
- Zanclognatha laevigataOverlapping southeastern US range; distinguished by wing pattern details and genitalia
- Zanclognatha jacchusalisSimilar size and preference; requires careful examination of wing markings for separation
- Zanclognatha marcidilineaSympatric with which it may be confused; differences in line pattern and wing shape
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Cleptomita atrilineella by Grote in 1873, later transferred to Zanclognatha.
Data Deficiency
Despite being described 150 years ago, the remains poorly known biologically. The 164 iNaturalist observations suggest it is encountered infrequently or is underreported relative to more conspicuous .