Dichagyris acclivis
(Morrison, 1875)
Inclined Dart
Dichagyris acclivis, commonly known as the Inclined Dart, is a to central and eastern North America. The is of concern in parts of its range, notably listed as a species of special concern in Connecticut. are active in late summer and early autumn, with specializing on seeds of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichagyris acclivis: //dɪˈkædʒɪrɪs ækˈklɪvɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The specific epithet 'acclivis' (Latin for 'sloping' or 'inclined') may refer to a subtle pattern feature. Precise identification likely requires examination of or detailed wing pattern analysis, as is common for many Noctuinae . The late summer period (August–September) and association with prairie may aid in field identification.
Images
Appearance
have a wingspan of approximately 32 mm. As a member of the Dichagyris, it likely exhibits the typical dart with stout body, relatively narrow with intricate patterning, and more rounded .
Habitat
Prairie and grassland , particularly those supporting stands of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). The occurs in open areas with warm-season grasses.
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: southern Ontario and southern Massachusetts south to eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina; west to Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas; and south to east-central Texas.
Seasonality
are on from August to September. Larval development presumably occurs earlier in the growing season, synchronized with seed development of the grass.
Diet
feed on seeds of Panicum virgatum (switchgrass). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Panicum virgatum - larval feed specifically on seeds
Life Cycle
develop on switchgrass seeds. likely occurs in soil or leaf litter. emerge in late summer. Specific details of stage and number of per year are not documented.
Ecological Role
As a seed on switchgrass, may influence grass reproductive success and seed availability for other organisms in prairie .
Human Relevance
Listed as a of special concern in Connecticut, indicating regional priority due to loss or decline. The species may serve as an indicator of intact prairie .
Similar Taxa
- Other Dichagyris speciesMany Dichagyris are morphologically similar and require detailed examination for separation; D. acclivis may be distinguished by distribution, association, and period in combination with subtle morphological features.
- Other Noctuinae dart mothsGeneral resemblance in body form and pattern to numerous prairie-associated ; identification relies on specific wing markings and .
More Details
Conservation Status
The of special concern listing in Connecticut suggests vulnerability to fragmentation and loss of grassland . The specific association with switchgrass makes it dependent on prairie .
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Agrotis acclivis by Morrison in 1875 before transfer to Dichagyris.