Harrisimemna
Grote, 1873
Species Guides
1- Harrisimemna trisignata(Harris's three spot)
Harrisimemna is a of in the Noctuidae, 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 forewings of many species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Harrisimemna: //ˌhærɪsiˈmɛm.nə//
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Identification
Harrisimemna may be distinguished from other Acronictinae by wing pattern and genitalia structure, though specific diagnostic features for the genus require examination. Harrisimemna trisignata exhibits three distinct dark spots on the forewings, referenced in its specific epithet. Accurate identification to species level typically requires examination of genitalia or rearing from known plants.
Images
Distribution
Eastern and central North America (H. trisignata: Ontario, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Missouri, Vermont) and Japan (H. marmorata).
Similar Taxa
- AcronictaBoth belong to Acronictinae and share similar forewing patterns with dark markings; Harrisimemna is distinguished by genitalia and specific spot configurations.
- MeganolaSome Meganola show comparable size and wing patterning, but differ in wing venation and lack the characteristic three-spot arrangement of H. trisignata.
More Details
Etymology
The name honors Thaddeus William Harris (1795-1856), an American entomologist 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 type . The placement in Acronictinae reflects morphological affinities with dagger moths, though some historical treatments have varied in assignment within Noctuidae.