Diastema tigris

Guenée, 1852

Lantana Moth, Lantana Control Moth

Diastema tigris is a small noctuid with a wingspan of approximately 25 mm. Native to Florida and Texas, it has been widely introduced across tropical and subtropical regions as a agent targeting the weed camara. The was first described by Achille Guenée in 1852. Its , 'lantana moth,' directly reflects its specialized larval association with this plant.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diastema tigris: /diˈæstəmə ˈtaɪɡrɪs/

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Identification

Distinguished from other Diastema by genitalia ; however, specific external diagnostic features for field identification are not documented in available sources. The species' association with camara in introduced ranges may aid in recognition where other Diastema species are absent.

Appearance

Small with wingspan approximately 25 mm. Specific wing pattern details are not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Native range restricted to subtropical environments in Florida and Texas. Introduced established in diverse tropical and subtropical including Zambia, Australia, Micronesia, Fiji, Hawaii, Ghana, Saint Helena, Tanzania, Uganda, and Mauritius. Specific microhabitat preferences are not documented.

Distribution

to United States (Florida, Texas). Introduced to: Zambia, Australia, Micronesia, Fiji, Hawaii, Ghana, Saint Helena, Tanzania, Uganda, and Mauritius.

Diet

Larvae feed exclusively on camara. feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Lantana camara - larval plantSpecialized feeding relationship; sole documented . introduced specifically for of this plant.

Life Cycle

Complete with , larval, pupal, and stages. Specific developmental timing and details are not documented in available sources.

Ecological Role

Acts as a agent for the weed camara in introduced ranges. and ecological impacts in native range are not documented.

Human Relevance

Intentionally introduced to multiple countries for of camara, a significant agricultural and environmental weed. Effectiveness as a control agent and any non-target impacts are not documented in available sources.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Diastema species contains multiple ; D. tigris distinguished by genitalia and geographic distribution in native range.

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The iNaturalist record lists this as 'Diastema tigris ' with rank 'complex', suggesting possible cryptic diversity or unresolved within this nominal .

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Sources and further reading