Dasychira dorsipennata
Barnes & McDunnough, 1919
Sharp-lined Tussock Moth, Hardwood Tussock Moth
Dasychira dorsipennata is a tussock in the Erebidae, first described by Barnes and McDunnough in 1919. It is commonly known as the sharp-lined tussock moth or hardwood tussock moth. The species is native to North America and is assigned Hodges number 8293. It belongs to the tussock moth group, recognized for the distinctive tufted appearance of their caterpillars.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dasychira dorsipennata: /ˈdæsɪˌkaɪrə ˌdɔrsɪpɛˈnɑtə/
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Identification
As a Dasychira , this likely exhibits the characteristic tussock moth traits including tufted setae on the caterpillar. The specific epithet "dorsipennata" (meaning "back-winged") may refer to markings on the surface of the wings. The MONA/Hodges number 8293 provides a standardized reference for North American Lepidoptera identification.
Images
Habitat
Associated with hardwood forests, as indicated by the "hardwood tussock ." Specific plant associations have not been documented in available sources.
Distribution
North America. Documented presence in Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and the United States (Vermont). The full range likely extends more broadly across northern and eastern North America based on distribution patterns.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dasychira speciesDasychira is a of approximately 50 of tussock moths, many with similar . D. dorsipennata can be distinguished by its described wing patterns and geographic distribution, though precise differentiating characters require examination.
- Other Lymantriinae tussock mothsThe Lymantriinae contains numerous tussock with convergent caterpillar (tufted setae, hair pencils). of Dasychira species generally lack the prominent wing patterns seen in some related like Lymantria or Orgyia.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Olene dorsipennata by Barnes & McDunnough in 1919, later transferred to Dasychira. The basionym Olene dorsipennata is recognized in NCBI .
Nomenclature
The specific epithet dorsipennata combines Latin 'dorsum' (back) and 'penna' (wing), likely referring to wing markings. The "sharp-lined tussock" presumably describes distinct linear patterns on the wings or body.