Hypotrix
Guenée, 1852
Species Guides
13Hypotrix is a of owlet moths in the Noctuidae, tribe Eriopygini. The genus was substantially revised in 2010, incorporating from three other genera—Trichorthosia, Trichagrotis, and Hexorthodes—based on genital and genetic data. It currently comprises approximately 38 species distributed from the southwestern United States through Mexico to Brazil and Peru. The genus is distinguished by unique genital characters in both sexes.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hypotrix: /haɪˈpɒtrɪks/
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Identification
Females are identified by the distinctive form of the anal papillae: swollen and bulbous at the base, then abruptly tapering to a narrow pointed apex. In preserved specimens, this structure often curves beneath the and projects anteriorly, sometimes by as much as 180 degrees. Males are identified by a membranous flap arising from the middle of the sacculus that partially overtops the sclerotized portion; this flap bears masses of long on the , a feature specific to this .
Images
Distribution
Southern United States (including Arizona and New Mexico) through Mexico to Brazil and Peru.
Similar Taxa
- TrichorthosiaFormerly treated as a separate ; 11 were transferred to Hypotrix in 2010 based on genital and genetic data. Distinguished by lacking the specific male genital flap and female anal papilla of Hypotrix.
- HexorthodesFour were transferred from this to Hypotrix in 2010. Hexorthodes species lack the diagnostic genital characters that define Hypotrix.
- TrichagrotisOne was transferred from this to Hypotrix in 2010. Trichagrotis is distinguished by different genital and does not share the specialized male sacculus flap.
More Details
Taxonomic Revision
In 2010, Lafontaine, Ferris & Walsh revised the based on genital and novel genetic information, expanding it from 23 to approximately 38 by incorporating from Trichorthosia, Trichagrotis, and Hexorthodes.