Evergestis obliqualis

The combination of small size (forewings 13–18 mm), southwestern U.S. distribution, and association with Portulaca hosts distinguishes this species from other Evergestis. Evergestis pallidata, a widespread eastern species, has different wing patterning and host associations. E. obliqualis can be separated from E. rimosalis by geographic range and wing pattern details, though precise diagnostic characters require examination of genitalia.

Forewing length 13–18 mm. The species name 'obliqualis' refers to an oblique wing pattern element. As a member of Evergestis, it has relatively slender forewings compared to many crambids.

Arid and semi-arid environments where Portulaca species grow, including desert scrub, grasslands, and disturbed open areas in the southwestern United States.

Recorded from Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. The range corresponds to the distribution of larval host plants in the genus Portulaca.

Adults on wing from June to September. Single or possibly partial second generation depending on locality and elevation.

Larvae feed on Portulaca species (purslanes). Adult feeding habits unknown.

• Portulaca - larval food plantGenus of succulent herbs in family Portulacaceae

Larval herbivore on Portulaca; specific ecological interactions otherwise undocumented.

No significant documented interactions. Portulaca species include both native plants and minor agricultural weeds, but this moth is not known as an economic pest.

• Evergestis pallidataEastern North American distribution; different wing pattern and host plants (Brassicaceae)
• Evergestis rimosalisOverlapping range but different wing pattern; associated with different host plants

• moth
• crambid
• southwestern US
• Portulaca feeder

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life