Acronicta tritona
Hübner, 1818
Triton dagger moth
Acronicta tritona, commonly known as the Triton dagger , is a to eastern North America. The was first described by Jacob in 1818. have a wingspan of 35–40 mm. The feeds on specific plants including Helonias bullata and various Vaccinium species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acronicta tritona: /əˈkɹoʊnɪktə tɹɪˈtoʊnə/
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Identification
The combination of size (35–40 mm wingspan), eastern North distribution, and association with wetland or bog where Helonias bullata grows may aid identification. The larval specificity distinguishes it from some .
Images
Appearance
have a wingspan of 35–40 mm. The belongs to the dagger , characterized by that typically feature a dark, dagger-shaped streak near the inner margin—though specific pattern details for A. tritona are not detailed in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with supporting its larval plants. Helonias bullata (swamp pink) grows in acidic wetlands, bogs, and wet meadows. Vaccinium occur in varied habitats including forests, barrens, and wetlands.
Distribution
Eastern North America: from Nova Scotia west to north-eastern Alberta, south to Florida and Texas, and west to Oregon.
Diet
feeds on Helonias bullata (swamp pink) and Vaccinium , including Oxycoccos species and Vaccinium stamineum (deerberry).
Host Associations
- Helonias bullata - larval swamp pink
- Vaccinium stamineum - larval deerberry
- Oxycoccos - larval small and related
Similar Taxa
- Acronicta americana dagger is larger with different larval plants (maple, box elder, etc.) and more widespread
- Acronicta betulaeBirch dagger is associated with birch trees rather than Vaccinium or Helonias
More Details
Nomenclature
Originally described as Triaena tritona by in 1818, later transferred to Acronicta.
Conservation context
Helonias bullata, a primary larval , is a rare and declining in parts of its range, which may affect local of the .