Schinia biforma

Smith, 1906

Schinia biforma is a small noctuid described by Smith in 1906. It occurs in the south-central United States, with documented records from Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. The species has a wingspan of approximately 21 mm. Larvae are known to feed on Amblyolepis setigera, a member of the sunflower .

Schinia biforma1 by Unspecified. Used under a Copyrighted free use license.

Schinia biforma4 by Unspecified. Used under a Copyrighted free use license.

Schinia biforma2 by Unspecified. Used under a Copyrighted free use license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Schinia biforma: /ˈskiːniə baɪˈfɔːrmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other Schinia by geographic distribution and association with plant Amblyolepis setigera. The small size (21 mm wingspan) and specific pattern details require examination of specimens or specialized references for definitive identification.

Images

Appearance

Small with wingspan of approximately 21 mm. Specific coloration and pattern not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Associated with supporting its larval plant Amblyolepis setigera. This plant occurs in dry, open areas including prairies and grasslands in the south-central United States.

Distribution

Documented from Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas in the United States. The range appears restricted to the south-central Great Plains and adjacent regions.

Diet

Larvae feed on Amblyolepis setigera (Asteraceae). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

Amblyolepis setigera - larval food plantLarvae feed on this plant , which is commonly known as hog potato or prairie broomweed.

Similar Taxa

Other Schinia speciesThe Schinia contains over 120 in North America, many with similar small size and flower-associated . Differentiation requires examination of genitalia or detailed pattern analysis.

More Details

Taxonomic placement

Schinia biforma is classified in the Heliothinae within Noctuidae, a group commonly known as flower moths due to their frequent association with flowers as and their larval feeding on reproductive structures of plants.