Viridiseptis
Mustelin & Crabo, 2015
Species Guides
1Viridiseptis is a in the Noctuidae, erected in 2015. Its sole , Viridiseptis marina, was originally described in 1874. The genus is to the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from southwestern Oregon through California. are characterized by distinctive green forewings with complex dark patterning.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Viridiseptis: /vɪˌrɪdɪˈsɛptɪs/
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Identification
The is distinguished from related noctuids by the combination of mossy green forewings with mottled dark-gray to black and light-green patterning that obscures most wing lines and spots. The and spots are relatively small, filled with peripheral whitish and central green . The hindwings are light brown-gray with a darker border. Wingspan approximately 29.5–35 mm. The genus name references this green coloration (viridis = green) and its relationship to Aseptis.
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Habitat
Found in coastal chaparral, mountain forest, and mountain-desert transition zones. Occasionally occurs in desert . Elevational range from sea level to at least 2000 meters.
Distribution
Coastal California and southwestern Oregon (north to Douglas County). Widely distributed in southern California.
Seasonality
are on wing from April to early July.
Diet
Larvae feed on Nemophila, Pholistoma auritium, Lilja, and Lithophragma .
Host Associations
- Nemophila - larval plant
- Pholistoma auritium - larval plant
- Lilja - larval plant
- Lithophragma - larval plant
Similar Taxa
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Etymology
The name combines Latin viridis (meaning green) with septis, by analogy to the related genus Aseptis.