Tarache sedata
Edwards, H., 1881
bird-dropping moth
Tarache sedata is a of bird-dropping in the Noctuidae, first described by Henry Edwards in 1881. It belongs to the Acontiinae, a group commonly known as bird-dropping moths due to their cryptic coloration that resembles bird . The species is found in North America, though specific details about its and remain poorly documented in the scientific literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tarache sedata: /ˈtarake ˈsɛdata/
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Identification
As a member of the Acontiinae , Tarache sedata likely exhibits the characteristic bird-dropping mimicry coloration typical of this group—pale gray, white, or mottled patterns that provide camouflage against lichen-covered surfaces or actual bird droppings. The can be distinguished from other Tarache species by genitalia examination, as many acontiine are morphologically similar externally. The MONA or Hodges number for this species is 9154, a standardized numbering system used in North American moth identification.
Images
Distribution
North America. Specific range details beyond this continental-level distribution are not well documented in available sources.
Similar Taxa
- Tarache delectaBoth are members of the Tarache in the Acontiinae, sharing similar bird-dropping and likely overlapping geographic ranges in North America. T. delecta larvae feed on Hibiscus , but larval associations for T. sedata remain unknown.
- Tarache areloidesAnother congeneric bird-dropping with similar cryptic coloration and patterning. External of many Tarache species is highly similar, requiring dissection and examination of genitalia for definitive identification.
More Details
Taxonomic Status
The GBIF match flags Tarache sedata as 'DOUBTFUL' in status, suggesting potential taxonomic uncertainty or synonymy issues that may warrant further investigation. However, Catalogue of Life lists it as 'accepted'.
Observation Records
iNaturalist records 22 observations of this , indicating it is documented in citizen science databases but remains relatively underreported compared to more conspicuous species.