Epiblema tripartitana

(Zeller, 1875)

Epiblema tripartitana is a small in the Tortricidae. The has been documented in Colorado and Vermont, with observations at light stations during summer moth surveys. Its references the three-part or tripartite pattern. The moth exhibits distinctive coloration that has been described as resembling bird droppings, a form of protective .

Epiblema tripartitana SERC 07-06-16 (27776062564) by Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Epiblema tripartitana by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.Epiblema tripartitana 1 by Jacy Lucier. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Epiblema tripartitana: //ˌɛpɪˈbliːmə ˌtraɪˌpɑːrtɪˈtɑːnə//

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

Identification

The has been described as having coloration that resembles bird droppings, serving as . The specific epithet 'tripartitana' refers to a three-part pattern. As a member of the Olethreutinae , it likely has the typical resting posture with wings held roof-like over the body. Positive identification requires examination of or comparison with similar Epiblema .

Images

Habitat

Observed at light stations in montane and prairie-edge . Documented from cottonwood groves with nearby wetlands in prairie landscapes, and from montane areas near Colorado Springs.

Distribution

United States: Colorado (El Paso County, Cheyenne Mountain State Park), Vermont.

Seasonality

active in July based on light trap records from Colorado.

Behavior

, attracted to artificial light sources including mercury vapor and blacklight stations.

Human Relevance

Subject of citizen science surveys during National Moth Week events.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Epiblema speciesSimilar size, shape, and posture; require examination or pattern details for separation
  • Other Olethreutinae tortricidsShared characteristics including shape and resting posture

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Sources and further reading