Sympistis aterrima

Grote, 1879

Sympistis aterrima is a small noctuid described by Grote in 1879. It is known from limited observations in western North America, with records from California. The was originally described under the Stylopoda before being transferred to Sympistis.

Sympistis aterrima by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Sympistis aterrima by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Sympistis aterrima by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sympistis aterrima: /sɪmˈpɪstɪs æˈtɛrɪmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Can be distinguished from other Sympistis by its small size (25 mm wingspan) and the combination of its geographic range and dark coloration implied by the specific epithet 'aterrima' (Latin for 'very black'). Formerly placed in Stylopoda, which aids in recognizing older literature.

Images

Appearance

Wingspan approximately 25 mm. Specific wing pattern details are not well documented in available sources.

Distribution

North America; specifically recorded from California. Distribution records are sparse, with only 4 observations documented on iNaturalist.

Similar Taxa

  • Sympistis speciesMany Sympistis are small, dark noctuids with similar wing patterns; precise identification requires examination of genitalia or molecular analysis.
  • Stylopoda speciesFormerly classified in this ; some sources may still use the older combination.

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Sources and further reading