Acronicta tristis

Smith, 1911

Sad Dagger

Acronicta tristis, commonly known as the Sad Dagger, is a in the Noctuidae, Acronictinae. It was described by Smith in 1911. The species occurs in eastern North America, with active during early summer. It is a relatively small noctuid moth with a wingspan of approximately 34 mm.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Acronicta tristis: //əˈkɹɒnɪktə ˈtɹɪstɪs//

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Identification

Distinguishing features from similar Acronicta not documented in available sources. The 'Sad Dagger' may refer to markings resembling a dagger shape on the forewings, a trait found in many Acronicta species, but this is speculative.

Appearance

Wingspan approximately 34 mm. Specific coloration and pattern details not documented in available sources.

Distribution

Eastern North America: from Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick (Canada) south to Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio (United States). Distribution records also confirm presence in Vermont.

Seasonality

are on wing from June to July.

More Details

Taxonomic History

First described by Smith in 1911. The specific epithet 'tristis' is Latin for 'sad' or 'gloomy', reflected in the 'Sad Dagger'.