Heliothis australis
Hardwick, 1994
A noctuid described in 1994, found from southern Mexico northward through the southwestern United States. are active during late spring through autumn. The species belongs to the Heliothinae , which contains several economically important agricultural pests, though specific pest status for this species has not been documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Heliothis australis: /hɛˈliːoʊθɪs ɔːˈstreɪlɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Heliothis by geographic distribution and period. Separation from the more widespread Heliothis virescens and related species requires examination of genitalia or molecular analysis; external alone is insufficient for reliable identification.
Distribution
Southern Mexico (Chiapas) northward through New Mexico and Arizona. Records indicate presence in the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexican regions.
Seasonality
on wing from May to October, with activity spanning late spring through autumn months.
Similar Taxa
- Heliothis virescensSimilar external ; H. virescens is more widespread across eastern and central North America and is a documented agricultural pest of tobacco and other crops
- Helicoverpa zeaFormerly classified in Heliothis; similar size and general appearance, but distinguished by forewing pattern and genitalia structure