Harrisimemna
Grote, 1873
Harrisimemna is a of in the , established by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1873. The genus contains at least two described : Harrisimemna trisignata, distributed across eastern and central North America, and Harrisimemna marmorata, recorded from Japan. These moths belong to the Acronictinae, a group commonly known as dagger moths due to the distinctive dagger-like markings on the of many species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Harrisimemna: //ˌhærɪsiˈmɛm.nə//
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Identification
Harrisimemna may be distinguished from other Acronictinae by pattern and structure, though specific diagnostic features for the genus require examination. Harrisimemna trisignata exhibits three distinct dark spots on the , referenced in its specific epithet. Accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of genitalia or rearing from known plants.
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Distribution
Eastern and central North America (H. trisignata: Ontario, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Missouri, Vermont) and Japan (H. marmorata).
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Etymology
The name honors Thaddeus William Harris (1795-1856), an and naturalist who made significant contributions to North American lepidopterology, combined with the Greek 'memna' (memory or mindful), likely referencing Harris's lasting influence on the field.
Taxonomic history
Grote established this in 1873, with Harrisimemna trisignata (originally described as Acronicta trisignata by Walker in 1856) as the . The placement in Acronictinae reflects morphological affinities with dagger , though some historical treatments have varied in assignment within .