Heliolonche modicella

Grote, 1873

Agoseris Flower Moth

Heliolonche modicella is a small in the Noctuidae, commonly known as the Agoseris Flower Moth. It is notable for its activity, unusual among noctuid moths. The has a wingspan of approximately 18 mm. It occurs in western North America, with confirmed records from California.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Heliolonche modicella: //ˌhɛlioʊˈlɒŋki moʊdɪˈsɛlə//

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Identification

The small size (18 mm wingspan) and may help distinguish this from related noctuids, which are predominantly . Specific diagnostic characters for field identification are not documented in available sources.

Appearance

Small with a wingspan of approximately 18 mm. Specific coloration and pattern details are not documented in available sources.

Distribution

Recorded from western North America, specifically California. Distribution records indicate presence in North America broadly, with California as a confirmed location.

Host Associations

  • Agoseris - suggests association 'Agoseris Flower ' implies larval or feeding relationship with Agoseris plants, though this has not been verified in available sources

Behavior

are day-flying (), an atypical for the Noctuidae, which is predominantly .

More Details

Taxonomic placement

Classified in Heliothinae within Noctuidae based on Catalogue of Life. The Heliolonche contains relatively few , and members are often associated with flowers.

Observation data

As of source date, 112 observations recorded on iNaturalist, indicating the is documented but not frequently encountered.

Tags

Sources and further reading