Loxostege oberthuralis
Fernald, 1894
Loxostege oberthuralis is a in the Crambidae, described by Charles H. Fernald in 1894. It is known from arid regions of the southwestern United States. The has a wingspan of approximately 32 mm and exhibits distinctive coloration with pale sulfur yellow forewings marked with reddish brown and white hindwings with a fuscous terminal line.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Loxostege oberthuralis: //lɒkˈsɒstɛdʒ ɒbərθʊˈrælɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The combination of pale sulfur yellow forewings with reddish brown markings and white hindwings with a dark terminal line distinguishes this from other Loxostege. The overall color pattern is paler than many . Specific distinguishing characters from closely related species within the are not documented in available sources.
Appearance
Wingspan approximately 32 mm. Forewings pale sulfur yellow with reddish brown markings. Hindwings white with a fuscous terminal line.
Habitat
Arid and semi-arid environments of the southwestern United States. Specific microhabitat preferences are not documented.
Distribution
Recorded from southern California, southern Arizona, and southern Nevada in the United States.
Similar Taxa
- Loxostege sticticalis (Alfalfa Webworm)Occurs in the same and region; L. oberthuralis is distinguished by its paler sulfur yellow forewings and more restricted southwestern distribution
- Other Loxostege speciesMany share similar body plan and Crambidae ; precise identification requires examination of wing pattern details and genitalia
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The name is sometimes misspelled as 'oberthuralis' versus 'oberthüralis' in different sources; the original publication by Fernald used 'oberthuralis' without the umlaut.
Etymology
The specific epithet likely honors the French entomologist Charles Oberthür (1845-1924), though this is not explicitly stated in the original description.