Lacinipolia viridifera
McDunnough, 1937
Green Owlet Moth
Lacinipolia viridifera is a of in the , described by James Halliday McDunnough in 1937. The species is characterized by green coloration in at least some individuals, distinguishing it from the typically gray or mottled in the Lacinipolia. Like other members of this genus, it is and attracted to light sources. The specific epithet 'viridifera' refers to the green coloration ('viridis' = green, 'fero' = bearing).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lacinipolia viridifera: /læˌsɪnɪˈpoʊliə vɪˌrɪdɪˈfɛrə/
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Identification
The green coloration separates this from most other Lacinipolia, which are typically gray or mottled . However, positive identification to species within Lacinipolia generally requires examination of or other microscopic features, as external alone is unreliable. The MONA ( of North America) or Hodges number 10419 provides a standardized reference. Specimens should be compared with confirmed series or identified by .
Images
Appearance
exhibit green coloration, a notable departure from the predominantly gray and mottled patterns typical of most Lacinipolia . possess reflective . The body and wing patterns are otherwise consistent with the general Lacinipolia : -sized with bodies and relatively broad wings. Specific pattern details beyond coloration are not well documented in available sources.
Habitat
Specific associations are not documented, but occupy diverse terrestrial environments including grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas. The has been recorded at blacklight stations in residential settings.
Distribution
North America. Specific range boundaries within the continent are not well defined in available literature.
Seasonality
have been observed in July in Colorado, suggesting summer period. Broader seasonal patterns are not documented.
Life Cycle
with , (), , and stages. Specific details of development duration, larval , and stage are not documented for this .
Behavior
; attracted to ultraviolet and blacklight sources. are likely cryptic at rest during daylight hours. One observer noted that green individuals probably rest on lichen-covered tree trunks for .
Ecological Role
Larval stage presumably functions as a (), though specific associations are unrecorded. may serve as for including bats and owls, and as potential of night-blooming flowers.
Human Relevance
Not known to be of economic significance. Attracted to residential blacklight setups, making it accessible to citizen scientists and enthusiasts. The contributes to documentation efforts such as National Moth Week.
Similar Taxa
- Lacinipolia spp. (congeners)Most Lacinipolia are gray or mottled ; L. viridifera distinguished by green coloration, though microscopic examination is required for definitive identification
More Details
Taxonomic reference
MONA/Hodges number 10419 provides a stable identifier for this in North faunal works
Observation note
One of only two Lacinipolia recorded during National Week 2017 in Colorado Springs, where it was noted as 'lovely green' and distinct from the more common gray, reflective-scaled