Ponometia altera

(Smith, 1903)

Ponometia altera is a small noctuid with a wingspan of approximately 21 mm. It occurs in the southwestern United States, specifically in New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The larvae feed on Ericameria , a of shrubs in the sunflower .

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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 wing 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

Larvae feed on Ericameria .

Host Associations

  • Ericameria - larval food plant of shrubs in the Asteraceae native to western North America.

Ecological Role

Herbivore in scrubland and semi-arid , linking Ericameria to higher .

Similar Taxa

  • Other Ponometia speciesSimilar size and general ; distinguished by geographic distribution and plant associations.

More Details

Taxonomic note

This has been classified under multiple historically, including Acontia and Torancontia, reflecting ongoing taxonomic revisions within the Acontiinae .

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Sources and further reading