Calophasia
Stephens, 1829
Species Guides
1- Calophasia lunula(Toadflax Brocade Moth)
Calophasia is a of in the Noctuidae, first described by Stephens in 1829. The genus contains approximately eight described distributed across Europe, North Africa, and parts of North America. The most well-known species is Calophasia lunula (toadflax brocade), which has been introduced to North America as a agent for toadflax plants. Species in this genus are generally associated with open, dry .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Calophasia: //ˌkæloʊˈfeɪziə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Habitat
in this are associated with open, dry including grasslands, meadows, and disturbed areas. Calophasia lunula specifically inhabits areas where its plants, toadflax species (Linaria), grow, including roadsides, railway embankments, and waste ground.
Distribution
Europe (including Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, Sweden), North Africa (Egypt, Sinai), and North America (Vermont, United States, where introduced). Native range extends from western Europe through the Mediterranean region to the Middle East.
Diet
Larvae feed on plants in the Linaria (toadflax). Calophasia lunula larvae are specialized feeders on yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) and Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria dalmatica).
Host Associations
- Linaria - larval foodplantprimary
- Linaria vulgaris - larval foodplantyellow toadflax
- Linaria dalmatica - larval foodplantDalmatian toadflax
Ecological Role
Calophasia lunula has been introduced to North America as a agent to manage toadflax that compete with native vegetation in rangeland and prairie .
Human Relevance
Used in programs in the United States and Canada to suppress toadflax weeds. The was first released in North America in the 1960s.
Similar Taxa
- Other Noctuinae generasimilar general ; distinguished by genitalia and larval plant specificity
- Shargacuculliaalso contains toadflax-feeding ; Calophasia distinguished by forewing pattern and male genitalia structure
More Details
Biological control history
Calophasia lunula was introduced to North America from Europe specifically for biocontrol purposes. It has established in several US states and Canadian provinces, though its effectiveness varies by region.