Lithophane joannis
Covell & Metzler, 1992
Buckeye Pinion
Lithophane joannis, known as the Buckeye Pinion, is a described by Covell and Metzler in 1992. It is a small with measuring 15–17 mm. The species exhibits an unusual period spanning late autumn through early spring, active from October to April. It is to a restricted range in the eastern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lithophane joannis: //ˌlɪθəˈfeɪni dʒoʊˈænɪs//
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Identification
Can be distinguished from other Lithophane by its restricted geographic distribution in Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan combined with its autumn-to-spring period. The length of 15–17 mm provides a size reference. Specific diagnostic morphological features distinguishing it from are not documented.
Images
Appearance
Small with 15–17 mm in length. Specific coloration and pattern details are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
to the eastern United States, documented from Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan.
Seasonality
from October to April, indicating adult activity with peak presence during late autumn and early spring.
Similar Taxa
- Other Lithophane speciesCongeneric share general and require careful examination; L. joannis is distinguished by its specific geographic range and autumn-spring period.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Authority sometimes cited as Metzler & Covell, 1992 in some databases, though original description priority follows Covell & Metzler, 1992.
Observation status
The has relatively few documented observations (17 records on iNaturalist as of source date), suggesting it may be undercollected, cryptic, or genuinely rare.