Agrochola pulchella
(Smith, 1900)
cutworm moth, dart moth
Agrochola pulchella is a noctuid described by Smith in 1900. It belongs to the or dart moth group within the Noctuidae, one of the largest families of Lepidoptera. The species is recorded from North America and has been assigned Hodges number 9955 in the North American moth numbering system. Like other members of the Agrochola, it is a species attracted to light.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agrochola pulchella: /ˌæɡrəˈkoʊlə pʊlˈkɛlə/
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Identification
Agrochola pulchella can be distinguished from related by its specific wing pattern and coloration characteristic of the Agrochola, though detailed diagnostic features require examination of specimens. The species is smaller than some congeneric species. It may be confused with other Xylenini tribe members, particularly those in the genera Agrochola and Xanthia, but specific identification typically requires genitalia examination or reference to original description and type material. The Hodges number 9955 provides a unique identifier for North American records.
Images
Distribution
North America. Specific records are sparse but the is documented from the continent based on museum specimens and literature records.
Similar Taxa
- Agrochola lychnidisCongeneric with overlapping distribution in North America; both are noctuid in the Xylenini tribe with similar overall appearance, requiring careful examination for separation
- Xanthia speciesFormerly classified under Xanthia (as Xanthia pulchella); related share similar and were historically confused, necessitating taxonomic revision to separate