Prorasea simalis
Grote, 1878
A small crambid described by Grote in 1878. show considerable color variation from pale ocherous to dark fuscous or blackish. The occurs across western North America from Alberta to California. period extends from early spring through midsummer.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Prorasea simalis: /proʊˈreɪsiə ˈsɪməlɪs/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar crambids by combination of: small size (under 30 mm wingspan), highly variable forewing coloration, white-flecked oblique lines, and white subterminal shade. The dark lines and smoky fuscous hindwings provide additional diagnostic characters. Geographic range in western North America helps separate from eastern .
Appearance
Small with wingspan 22 mm in males, 26–29 mm in females. Forewings highly variable in ground color: ocherous, fuscous, or blackish. Indistinct oblique lines present, flecked with white. Dark lines contrast with lighter ground color. Subterminal area fuscous or ocherous with white subterminal shade. Hindwings smoky fuscous, paler at base.
Distribution
Western North America: Alberta (Canada), California, Colorado, Nevada, and Oregon (USA).
Seasonality
active March through August, indicating multivoltine or extended pattern.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Placed in Evergestinae based on Catalogue of Life classification. Original description by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1878.
Observation rarity
Only 3 observations recorded in iNaturalist as of data compilation, suggesting either genuine rarity or undercollection.