Photedes enervata

(Guenée, 1852)

many-lined cordgrass moth, many-lined photedes

Photedes enervata is a noctuid occurring in Atlantic coastal marshes of North America. The was transferred from Hypocoena to Photedes based on morphological and genetic evidence. Larvae are feeders on Spartina alterniflora (smooth cordgrass), tying them to salt marsh . are rarely encountered away from coastal wetland .

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Photedes enervata: /fəʊˈtiːdiːz ɛˈnɜːrvətə/

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

Identification

Formerly classified under Hypocoena, this can be distinguished from related by genitalic characters and molecular data that support its placement in Photedes. Specific wing pattern characters separating it from are not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Salt marshes and coastal wetlands; scattered records from inland wetlands in the northern portion of its range.

Distribution

Atlantic Coast of North America from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick south to Florida; scattered inland wetland records in the northern range.

Diet

Larvae feed on Spartina alterniflora (smooth cordgrass). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

Spartina alterniflora - larval food plantsmooth cordgrass; obligate association

Ecological Role

Herbivore in salt marsh ; larval feeding on Spartina alterniflora represents a specialized trophic link in coastal wetland .

Similar Taxa

Hypocoena speciesFormerly classified in this ; reclassification to Photedes based on revised

More Details

Taxonomic History

The was long known as Hypocoena enervata before transfer to Photedes. This reclassification reflects ongoing revision of noctuid generic boundaries.