Hypena vetustalis
Guenée, 1854
tropical bomolocha moth
Hypena vetustalis, commonly known as the tropical bomolocha , is a of owlet moth in the Erebidae. It is found in North America and has been assigned the MONA/Hodges number 8454.1. The species was first described by Guenée in 1854. As a member of the Hypena, it shares the triangular wing posture at rest characteristic of this group.

Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hypena vetustalis: /hɪˈpiːnə vɛˈtʊstəlɪs/
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Identification
Hypena vetustalis can be distinguished from other Hypena by subtle differences in wing pattern and coloration, though specific diagnostic features are not well documented in available sources. The Hypena is characterized by that hold their wings in a triangular shape when at rest. Accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of genitalia or detailed wing pattern analysis by a .
Images
Distribution
North America. Specific regional distribution details within this range are not well documented in available sources.
Behavior
are and have been observed at artificial lights. Like other , they are disoriented rather than attracted by light sources, exhibiting spiraling patterns when encountering illumination.
Similar Taxa
- Hypena scabra (green cloverworm moth)Both are North American Hypena with similar triangular wing posture at rest. H. scabra is more thoroughly documented and is a significant agricultural pest, whereas H. vetustalis appears to be less common or less frequently encountered.
More Details
Taxonomic Notes
The epithet 'vetustalis' derives from Latin, suggesting 'old' or 'ancient' characteristics, though the specific reference is not documented in available sources.
Cataloging Information
The MONA ( of North America) or Hodges number 8454.1 indicates its position in the standardized North American moth numbering system.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
- Soybean Insects: Mid-to-Late Season Pests (V8 to Maturity) - AgriLife Extension Entomology
- green cloverworm (Hypena scabra) - Entomology Today
- A Revision of Soybean Caterpillar Pest Information for U.S. Soybean
- Bug Eric: National Moth Week 2024 Recap from Kansas City
- Bug Eric: Blacklighting Already?
- caterpillar pests of soybean - Entomology Today