Acronicta vinnula
Grote, 1864
delightful dagger moth
Acronicta vinnula, commonly known as the delightful dagger , is a small to eastern North America. have a wingspan of 28–32 mm and are active from April through August, with at least two per year. The is notable for its feeding exclusively on elm leaves.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acronicta vinnula: /əˈkroʊnɪktə ˈvɪnjʊlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
are small with a wingspan of 28–32 mm. The specific pattern and coloration distinguishing A. vinnula from other Acronicta are not documented in available sources. The Acronicta (dagger ) is characterized by distinctive black dagger-shaped markings on the of many species, though this feature's presence in A. vinnula specifically is not confirmed.
Images
Habitat
Associated with elm trees, the larval . The occurs in environments where elm is present, though specific are not documented.
Distribution
Eastern North America: Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas, north to Wisconsin and Ontario.
Seasonality
are active from April to August, with timing varying by location. At least two occur per year.
Diet
feed on leaves of elm (Ulmus ). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- elm - larval feed on leaves
Life Cycle
with at least two per year. Specific details on , larval, pupal, and stages beyond timing are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Acronicta betulaeAnother elm-feeding dagger in the same ; A. vinnula is smaller (28–32 mm vs. larger size in A. betulae) and has different timing
- Acronicta americanaLarger dagger with different associations; A. vinnula is smaller and more restricted in range and host use