Litoprosopus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Litoprosopus: /lɪtoʊˈprɒsəpəs/

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Summary

Litoprosopus is a genus of moths in the subfamily Dyopsinae of the family Erebidae, identified through both morphological characteristics and molecular studies. It includes several species known for their distinctive wing patterns and larvae that feed on palm trees.

Physical Characteristics

Adult forewing pale gray or tan to orangish or brown with broken/inconspicuous lines and spots; hindwing with large and/or conspicuous spots near anal angle. Larvae have a black head and cervical shield, pale pink body with sparse long white hairs protruding from black tubercles on each abdominal segment.

Identification Tips

The wingspan of species like L. futilis ranges from 40-48 mm. Look for distinctive color patterns and the noticeable spots on the hindwings.

Habitat

Found on or near larval foodplants, particularly various species of palm trees.

Distribution

Southern United States: North Carolina to Florida, west to California; also represented in Central and South America.

Diet

Larvae feed on buds and leaves of palm trees in the genera Sabal, Serenoa, and Washingtonia. Large larvae may also consume smaller larvae of the same species.

Life Cycle

Adults of L. futilis fly year-round in the far south; from June to September in North Carolina. Larvae are present in spring.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive habits are not provided in the source material.

Predators

Some natural predators may be deterred by the material larvae regurgitate when disturbed.

Ecosystem Role

Contributes to the biodiversity of nocturnal moths and serves as prey for other wildlife.

Collecting Methods

• Light trapping
• Net collection during flight

Preservation Methods

• Drying
• Pinning

Evolution

Recent molecular results show a close relationship between Dyops Guenée and Litoprosopus Grote, suggesting potential evolutionary links within the Noctuidae family.

Similar Taxa

• Dyops Guenée

Tags

• Lepidoptera
• Noctuidae
• Moths
• Litoprosopus