Annaphila astrologa

Barnes & McDunnough, 1918

Annaphila astrologa is a small day-flying owlet moth in the Noctuidae, first described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1918. Unlike most noctuid , it is active during daylight hours and has been described as attractive in appearance. The is associated with grassland in California, where its larval plant, whispering bells (Emmenanthe penduliflora), occurs.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Annaphila astrologa: /ænəˈfaɪlə æˈstrɒləɡə/

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Identification

A member of the tribe Annaphilini within Stiriinae. Distinguished from typical noctuid by its activity pattern. Specific diagnostic features for separating it from are not documented in available sources.

Habitat

Grassland , particularly those supporting its plant whispering bells (Emmenanthe penduliflora). Observed in gardens where suitable vegetation occurs.

Distribution

North America, with documented observations in California. The MONA/Hodges number is 9857.

Seasonality

have been observed in March. Further seasonal data is not available.

Diet

Larvae feed on whispering bells (Emmenanthe penduliflora), a grassland wildflower native to California.

Host Associations

  • Emmenanthe penduliflora - larval plantwhispering bells, a California native grassland wildflower

Behavior

activity, in contrast to the typical of most Noctuidae. Has been observed visiting flowers in gardens.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Annaphila speciesShared characteristics; specific distinguishing features for A. astrologa not documented in available sources
  • Other NoctuidaeDay-flying distinguishes A. astrologa from the predominantly members of the

More Details

Taxonomic notes

Classified in tribe Annaphilini, Stiriinae. The Catalogue of Life lists this with status 'synonym', though GBIF treats it as accepted. Further taxonomic verification may be warranted.

Observation data

iNaturalist records 88 observations of this as of the data cutoff.

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Sources and further reading