Scoparia penumbralis
Dyar, 1906
Dark Brown Scoparia Moth, dark-brown scoparia moth
Scoparia penumbralis is a small crambid described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1906. It is known from eastern and central North America, with records spanning from Alabama and the Carolinas north to Newfoundland, and west to Minnesota and Wisconsin. The has a wingspan of approximately 12 mm and are active from May through September.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Scoparia penumbralis: /skɔˈpaː.ri.a pɛn.ʊmˈbraː.lɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The combination of small size (12 mm wingspan), smoky brownish-grey forewings with whitish lines edged in dark narrow shades, and the May-September period helps distinguish this from similar Scoparia. The specific wing pattern with dark-edged whitish lines separates it from with plainer or differently patterned forewings. Examination of genitalia may be required for definitive identification from closely related species.
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 12 mm. Forewings are smoky brownish-grey with whitish lines edged by dark narrow shades. Wing pattern provides cryptic coloration against bark and leaf litter.
Distribution
Eastern and central North America: recorded from Alabama, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Newfoundland, North Carolina, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Quebec, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Manitoba, and Vermont.
Seasonality
on wing from May to September.
Similar Taxa
- Other Scoparia speciesSimilar small size and general body form; require examination of wing pattern details and genitalia for separation
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1906 based on North American material.
Collection records
612 observations recorded in iNaturalist as of data compilation.