Hoterodes
Guenée, 1854
Species Guides
1Hoterodes is a of in the Crambidae, Spilomelinae, established by Guenée in 1854. The genus contains three recognized distributed in the Neotropical region: Hoterodes ausonia, Hoterodes albiceps, and Hoterodes violescens. Two former species have been reassigned to other genera. The genus is characterized by distinctive wing patterns and is part of the diverse grass moth lineage within Crambidae.
Identification
Hoterodes can be distinguished from related spilomeline crambids by their characteristic wing patterning, which often features pale ground coloration with darker markings. The name refers to the -like appearance of these insects. Specific identification to species level requires examination of genitalia and wing pattern details. Hoterodes ausonia, the type species, exhibits violet-tinged wings that help differentiate it from .
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Distribution
Neotropical region. Hoterodes ausonia occurs from Mexico through Central America to South America; Hoterodes albiceps is known from South America; Hoterodes violescens has been recorded from Ecuador and Peru.
Similar Taxa
- Other Spilomelinae generaHoterodes shares the general body plan and wing venation typical of Spilomelinae, but differs in specific pattern elements and genitalic structure. Distinguished by the combination of forewing shape and characteristic maculation pattern.
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Taxonomic history
Two formerly placed in Hoterodes have been reassigned: Hoterodes regalis Butler, 1882 and Hoterodes sericealis Pagenstecher, 1900 are now considered to belong to other within Crambidae.
Etymology
The name Hoterodes derives from Greek, referring to the -like form of these insects.