Prothrinax
Hampson, 1908
Species Guides
1Prothrinax is a of in the Noctuidae, Noctuinae. The genus was erected by George Hampson in 1908. It contains two described : Prothrinax luteomedia (Smith, 1907) and Prothrinax incana Köhler, 1979. Members of this genus are part of the diverse owlet moth fauna.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Prothrinax: /prɒˈθraɪnæks/
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Identification
Identification to level requires examination of genitalic and wing venation patterns characteristic of the Noctuinae. -level identification relies on subtle differences in forewing pattern and coloration; P. luteomedia has been described with yellowish areas on the forewing, while P. incana presents more uniform grayish coloration. Distinguishing Prothrinax from related noctuine genera requires dissection and comparison with type material.
Distribution
Prothrinax luteomedia is known from North America (type locality not specified in available sources). Prothrinax incana was described from Argentina, indicating a disjunct distribution pattern for the across the Americas. Specific range details for either remain poorly documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Noctuinae generaProthrinax shares the general 'owlet moth' common to many Noctuinae, requiring genitalic examination for definitive separation. The may be confused with Euxoa, Agrotis, or other brownish noctuines with nondescript forewing patterns.
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Hampson in 1908 to accommodate Prothrinax luteomedia, which had been originally described under a different genus by Smith in 1907. The second , P. incana, was not described until 1979 by Köhler, suggesting the genus remained poorly studied for much of the 20th century.
Species composition
Only two are currently recognized in Prothrinax. The appears to be small and may warrant further taxonomic study to confirm its validity as distinct from related noctuine genera.