Abagrotis petalama
Lafontaine, 1998
A small noctuid described by J. Donald Lafontaine in 1998. The name derives from Greek 'petalos' (broad, flat) and 'ama' (together), referring to the broad, flattened male genitalia valvae that distinguish it from . Known from limited specimens in western North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Abagrotis petalama: /ˌæb.əˈɡroʊ.tɪs ˌpɛt.əˈlɑː.mə/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Abagrotis by the male genitalia: the valvae are unusually broad and flattened, with a characteristic cucullus shape. The specific epithet directly references this diagnostic feature. External is not well documented in published sources.
Distribution
Western North America. Specific localities include records from the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and adjacent Canada.
Similar Taxa
- Abagrotis speciesSimilar external appearance; requires genitalic dissection and examination of male valvae structure for definitive identification.