Choristostigma disputalis
Barnes & McDunnough, 1917
Choristostigma disputalis is a small crambid described by Barnes and McDunnough in 1917. It is distributed across western North America from Alberta and British Columbia south to California, Oregon, and Arizona. have a wingspan of approximately 20 mm and are active from April through August. The is most readily distinguished from its Choristostigma elegantalis by its paler forewing ground color and distinctive wing pattern elements.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Choristostigma disputalis: /kɔˌrɪstoʊˈstɪɡmə ˌdɪspjuˈtælɪs/
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Identification
Distinguished from the very similar Choristostigma elegantalis by: (1) paler forewing ground color, (2) and spots filled with shiny whitish rather than darker tones, (3) reniform spot smaller and more constricted centrally, appearing almost divided into two equal triangular spots, (4) presence of faint silvery band in costal portion of forewing, (5) broader bluish patch between bend and inner margin, and (6) paler hindwings with only faint smoky suffusion outwardly and reduced postmedian line. No other North American Choristostigma share this combination of wing pattern elements.
Habitat
Specific associations are not documented in the literature. Based on the recorded distribution across diverse western North American regions from montane areas in Alberta and British Columbia to arid regions in Arizona, the likely occupies varied habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and riparian corridors.
Distribution
North America: Alberta, British Columbia (Canada); Arizona, California, Oregon (United States).
Seasonality
active from April to August.
Behavior
are attracted to light. No other have been documented.
Similar Taxa
- Choristostigma elegantalisVery similar in overall appearance; distinguished by darker forewing ground color, different spot configuration, and more strongly marked hindwings
More Details
Taxonomic History
Described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1917, two prominent North American lepidopterists of the early 20th century.
Observation Frequency
As of the knowledge cutoff, iNaturalist records 17 observations of this , indicating it is infrequently encountered or underreported relative to more common crambid .