Choristostigma perpulchralis
Hampson, 1898
Choristostigma perpulchralis is a small crambid characterized by striking yellow and pink coloration. The was described by Hampson in 1898 and occurs in the southwestern United States and eastern Mexico. have been recorded in March, May, and September, suggesting multiple or extended period. The bright color pattern likely serves an aposematic or mimetic function.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Choristostigma perpulchralis: //ˌkɔːrɪstoʊˈstɪɡmə pɛrpʊlˈkrælɪs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The bright yellow and pink coloration is distinctive among Choristostigma . The pink antemedial line on the forewing, combined with the pink and terminal area, separates this species from . The white hindwing with pink-suffused yellow terminal area is also diagnostic. Specimens can be confirmed by genitalia examination if necessary.
Appearance
Wingspan 18–22 mm. Forewings bright yellow with bright pink and terminal area, plus pink antemedial line. Hindwings white with yellowish terminal area suffused with pink . The combination of yellow ground color with pink markings creates a distinctive appearance among North American crambids.
Distribution
Mexico (Tehuacán, Veracruz) and United States (New Mexico, Texas). The occupies arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern U.S. and adjacent Mexican plateau.
Seasonality
recorded on wing in March, May, and September. This pattern suggests either multiple annually or a protracted period spanning spring through early autumn.
Similar Taxa
- Other Choristostigma species members share general crambid and size range, but differ in color pattern—C. perpulchralis is uniquely distinguished by its yellow and pink combination
- Spilomelinae with bright colorationSome spilomelines have yellow and red/pink patterns, but the specific arrangement of pink markings on yellow ground color in C. perpulchralis is distinctive