Conchylodes concinnalis

Hampson, 1898

Double-ringed Conchylodes

Conchylodes concinnalis is a small crambid found in Mexico and the south-eastern United States, with western extensions to Arizona and southern California. have a wingspan of approximately 23–24 mm and display distinctive white wings marked with black bands and spots. The is active from March through September, with adults attracted to light. The specific epithet 'concinnalis' and 'Double-ringed Conchylodes' reference the prominent paired dark markings on the forewings.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Conchylodes concinnalis: //kɒnˈkɪloʊdiːz kɒnˌsɪnˈnælɪs//

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Identification

Distinguished from similar Conchylodes by the specific arrangement of black markings on white wings: the combination of subbasal and antimedial bands plus the characteristic discocellular spot with large white center. The double-ringed appearance of the forewing spots gives the species its . Distinguished from the related zebra conchylodes moth (Conchylodes ovulalis) by the latter's bold black-and-white longitudinal striping pattern rather than transverse bands and spots.

Appearance

Small with wingspan of 23–24 mm. Wings are cretaceous (chalky) white. Forewings bear black subbasal and antemedial bands, a small spot in the with white center, and a larger discocellular spot with much larger white center. Submarginal and marginal lines are nearly straight and dark. Hindwings are typically paler with less complex patterning.

Distribution

Mexico; south-eastern United States north to Ohio; west to Arizona and southern California

Seasonality

active March through September

Behavior

are attracted to light and have been documented at blacklight setups during surveys.

Similar Taxa

  • Conchylodes ovulalisBold black-and-white longitudinal stripes rather than transverse bands and spots; commonly called zebra conchylodes moth
  • Other Conchylodes speciesSimilar size and general wing pattern, but differ in specific arrangement and shape of dark markings on forewings

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