Ponometia altera
(Smith, 1903)
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ponometia altera: //ˌpɔːnoʊˈmiːtiə ˈæltərə//
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Identification
Distinguished from related by its restricted distribution in the southwestern United States and association with Ericameria plants. The small size (21 mm wingspan) and specific geographic range help separate it from other Ponometia species.
Images
Appearance
Small with wingspan of approximately 21 mm. Specific pattern and coloration details are not documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with where Ericameria shrubs occur. These are typically dry, open environments in the southwestern United States including scrublands and semi-arid regions.
Distribution
Southern United States: New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
Diet
feed on Ericameria .
Host Associations
- Ericameria - larval of shrubs in the Asteraceae to western North America.
Ecological Role
in scrubland and semi-arid , linking Ericameria to higher .
Similar Taxa
- Other Ponometia speciesSimilar size and general ; distinguished by geographic distribution and associations.
More Details
Taxonomic note
This has been classified under multiple historically, including Acontia and Torancontia, reflecting ongoing taxonomic revisions within the Acontiinae .
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
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