Ponometia tortricina
(Zeller, 1872)
Yellowish Bird-dropping Moth
Ponometia tortricina is a small in the Noctuidae, commonly known as the Yellowish Bird-dropping Moth. It belongs to a group of moths whose camouflage resembles bird droppings, an that helps avoid . The species was first described by Zeller in 1872 and has been recorded across multiple observation platforms.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ponometia tortricina: //ˌpɒnəˈmiːʃə tɔːrˈtrɪsɪnə//
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Identification
The "bird-dropping moth" refers to cryptic coloration that resembles avian , a defensive trait shared with related in the . The specific epithet "tortricina" suggests a resemblance to tortricid moths in wing shape or posture. Accurate identification requires examination of genitalia or comparison with closely related Ponometia species.
Images
Distribution
Records exist from North America based on iNaturalist observations, though specific range boundaries are not well documented in available sources.
Behavior
As with other bird-dropping , resting posture likely enhances the fecal mimicry camouflage.
Similar Taxa
- Other Ponometia speciesShare the bird-dropping moth and cryptic coloration; require careful examination to distinguish
- Tortricidae (tortrix moths)Wing shape or resting posture resemblance implied by the specific epithet; not closely related but potentially confused visually
More Details
Nomenclature note
GBIF lists this as a synonym under Acontia tortricina, reflecting historical taxonomic instability in this group. The accepted combination in Catalogue of Life is Ponometia tortricina.
Hodges number
The is assigned MONA/Hodges number 9101, used in North American classification systems.