Schinia intrabilis

Smith, 1893

Schinia intrabilis is a small noctuid native to the southwestern United States. are active in early spring, with a single per year. The has a wingspan of approximately 23 mm. Larvae are specialized feeders on Pluchea sericea, a shrub in the aster .

Schinia intrabilis by (c) Ken-ichi Ueda, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ken-ichi Ueda. Used under a CC-BY license.Schinia intrabilis by Unspecified. Used under a Copyrighted free use license.CATALOGUE-BM-LVIII by Sir GEORGE F. HAMPSON, Bart.. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Schinia intrabilis: //ˈskɪniə ɪnˈtræbɪlɪs//

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Identification

Distinguished from other Schinia by geographic distribution in the southwestern U.S. and early spring period (March–April). Specific diagnostic features for field identification not documented. Similar to other small heliothine noctuids; genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification.

Images

Appearance

Small with wingspan approximately 23 mm. consistent with Schinia: compact body, relatively broad wings. Specific coloration and pattern details not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Associated with supporting its larval plant Pluchea sericea (arrowweed), which typically occurs in riparian areas, washes, and moist alkaline soils in desert and semi-arid regions.

Distribution

Southwestern United States: California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, and Utah.

Seasonality

active March to April. One per year ().

Diet

Larvae feed on Pluchea sericea (Asteraceae). feeding habits not documented.

Host Associations

  • Pluchea sericea - larval arrowweed; larvae feed on flowers and seed pods

Life Cycle

Complete . One per year with emerging in early spring. Larval development occurs on plant; details not documented.

Ecological Role

Herbivore as larva; likely as given flower-visiting observed in related Schinia . Specific ecological role not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Schinia speciesMany Schinia are small, colorful noctuids with similar ; S. intrabilis distinguished by range and
  • Small heliothine noctuids in southwestern U.S.Similar size and general appearance; require genitalia examination for definitive identification

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Sources and further reading