Cacozelia basiochrealis
Grote, 1878
Yellow-based Cacozelia Moth, yellow-based cacozelia
Cacozelia basiochrealis is a small snout moth in the Pyralidae, described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1878. It is restricted to the southern United States. The is characterized by its small forewing size and distinct yellow basal coloring that gives it its . are primarily active in late summer.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cacozelia basiochrealis: /ˌkeɪkoʊˈziːliə ˌbeɪsiɒkˈriːælɪs/
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Identification
The combination of small size (forewings 9–11.5 mm), yellow basal forewing coloration, and occurrence in the southern United States distinguishes this . The yellow base of the forewings is the primary diagnostic feature referenced in both the and scientific epithet. Similar Cacozelia species would require comparison of genitalia or more detailed wing pattern analysis; specific differentiating characters from are not documented in available sources.
Images
Appearance
Small with forewings measuring 9–11.5 mm in length. The forewings have a yellow base, which is the source of both the and the specific epithet 'basiochrealis' (from Latin 'basis' meaning base and 'ochrea' meaning yellow). As a member of Pyralidae, it possesses the -typical elongated labial palps that project forward like a snout. Wing pattern details beyond the yellow basal area are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
Southern United States. Specific state records are not detailed in available sources.
Seasonality
are generally on wing from late July to early September, with records also from June and October. The primary period appears to be late summer.
Similar Taxa
- Other Cacozelia species in the same share similar body plan and size range; identification requires examination of genitalia or subtle wing pattern differences not detailed in general sources
- Other Epipaschiinae in Pyralidae members share snout moth and small to medium size; wing pattern and geographic distribution help distinguish C. basiochrealis
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'basiochrealis' directly describes the ' most notable feature: the yellow (ochre) coloration at the base (basis) of the forewings. This is one of the rare cases where a 's closely matches its in descriptive intent.
Taxonomic history
Described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1878, a prominent 19th-century American lepidopterist who described numerous North American .