Tarache idella
(Barnes, 1905)
Tarache idella is a small noctuid first described by William Barnes in 1905. It is known from the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona and Texas. are active in September and are characterized by distinctive orange-yellow forewings with vertical black markings and a bright orange spot. The belongs to the Acontiinae, a group of moths whose larvae often feed on specific plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tarache idella: /ˈtæɹətʃi aɪˈdɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The combination of orange-yellow forewings with vertical black striations and a prominent orange spot is diagnostic. The entirely orange hindwings further distinguish this from similar Tarache and Acontia species in the region. No other southwestern noctuid shows this exact pattern of orange-yellow ground color with black linear markings and apical orange spot.
Appearance
have a wingspan of 24–27 mm. Forewings are orange-tinted yellow with numerous vertical black lines and dashes, and a distinct bright orange spot at the apex. Hindwings are entirely suffused with orange. The overall coloration is striking and distinctive among southwestern noctuids.
Distribution
Found in Arizona and Texas in the southwestern United States.
Seasonality
are on wing in September.
Similar Taxa
- Tarache delectaSimilar and color pattern, but T. delecta larvae feed on Hibiscus and likely differ in wing pattern details
- Other Acontiinae speciesShare characteristics but differ in the specific orange-yellow and black pattern of T. idella