Nola triquetrana
Fitch, 1856
Three-spotted Nola Moth, three-spotted nola
Nola triquetrana is a small nolid found in North America. It belongs to the Nolidae, a group of moths closely related to owlet moths. The species is commonly known as the three-spotted nola moth, referring to the characteristic spotting pattern on its forewings. The MONA or Hodges number for this species is 8992, a standardized identification code used in North American moth classification. The species was first described by Fitch in 1856 under the basionym Brachytaenia triquetrana.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nola triquetrana: /ˈnoʊlə ˌtraɪkwɪˈtreɪnə/
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Identification
The three-spotted nola can be identified by the presence of three characteristic spots on the forewings, which distinguishes it from other Nola . The MONA/Hodges number 8992 provides a standardized reference for identification in North American moth fauna. For definitive identification, examination of genitalia and comparison with may be necessary, as is standard practice for many nolid moths.
Images
Appearance
Small with forewings bearing three distinct spots, as indicated by the . Wing pattern and coloration typical of the Nola, with relatively broad, rounded forewings. Detailed morphological descriptions of size, color, and wing markings are not available in the provided sources.
Distribution
North America. Specific records include Vermont, United States. The occurs across the North American continent, though precise range boundaries are not well documented in available sources.
Human Relevance
The has minor significance as a subject of entomological study and biodiversity documentation. It is not known to be an agricultural pest or to have direct economic impact. The species contributes to diversity records and serves as an indicator of healthy moth in its native range.
Similar Taxa
- Other Nola speciesNola is a speciose with many similar small ; N. triquetrana is distinguished specifically by its three-spotted forewing pattern
- Nolidae family membersShare general body plan and wing shape; specific spot pattern distinguishes N. triquetrana
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Brachytaenia triquetrana by Fitch in 1856, later transferred to Nola. The basionym Brachytaenia triquetrana is preserved as a synonym.
Standardized identification
The MONA ( of North America) or Hodges number 8992 provides a stable reference identifier for this in North American lepidopteran databases and field guides.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- Catalogue of Life
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