Lithophane abita
Brou & Lafontaine, 2009
Bald Cypress Pinion
Lithophane abita is a described in 2009 from the southeastern United States. It is one of several Lithophane associated with bald cypress swamps and related wetland . are active during winter months, with periods varying geographically from October through April. The species is named from the Latin 'abita' (to depart), likely referencing its seasonal disappearance during warmer months.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lithophane abita: //lɪˈθoʊˌfeɪn əˈbiːtə//
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Identification
length approximately 17 mm in both sexes. As a recently described , specific diagnostic features distinguishing it from are not well documented in accessible literature. The Lithophane is characterized by stout-bodied with cryptically colored forewings, typically in of gray and with intricate patterning. Species-level identification within Lithophane often requires examination of or reference to original species descriptions.
Images
Habitat
Associated with Taxodium distichum (bald cypress) swamps and related wetland forests in the southeastern United States.
Distribution
United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, and North Carolina.
Seasonality
active from late October through early April, with peak timing varying by latitude. In Louisiana, period is late November to late March. In Maryland, activity begins mid-October. In Mississippi and North Carolina, extends to early April.
Diet
probably feed on Taxodium distichum (bald cypress).
Host Associations
- Taxodium distichum - probable larval Based on larval collection records and association
Similar Taxa
- Other Lithophane speciesNumerous occur in eastern North America, many with similar size, coloration, and winter periods; -level identification requires careful examination
- Lithophane patefactaAnother bald cypress-associated Lithophane with overlapping range and similar preferences