Ephestiodes erythrella

Ragonot, 1887

Ephestiodes erythrella is a small pyralid described by Émile Louis Ragonot in 1887. Native to western North America, it ranges from Texas and Ontario westward to British Columbia, California, and Utah. It has been introduced to Hawaii. The has a wingspan of approximately 13–16 mm.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ephestiodes erythrella: //ɛfˈɛsti.oʊˌdiːz ˌɛrɪˈθrɛlə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from congeneric by geographic distribution and subtle morphological features; precise diagnostic characters require examination of genitalia or detailed wing pattern analysis. Smaller than many related stored-product in the Cadra.

Habitat

Specific preferences are not documented. Based on distribution records, occurs in diverse environments across western North America from Texas to British Columbia.

Distribution

Native to North America: Texas, Ontario westward through British Columbia, California, and Utah. Introduced to Hawaii.

Behavior

Attracted to ultraviolet light; has been documented at blacklighting displays.

Similar Taxa

  • Ephestiodes gilvescentellaSimilar size and ; distinguished by subtle wing pattern differences and geographic overlap in western North America

More Details

Taxonomic history

Described by French entomologist Émile Louis Ragonot in 1887, a in Pyralidae.

Sources and further reading