Catocala amica
| Catocala amica | ||||||||||||
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Catocala amica |
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| Systematics | ||||||||||||
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| Scientific name | ||||||||||||
| Catocala amica | ||||||||||||
| Huebner , 1818 |
Catocala amica is a butterfly found in North America( moth ) fromthe owl butterfly family (Noctuidae). The specific epithet is based on the Latin word amica meaning "girlfriend". The species is referred to as girlfriend underwing in English usage.
features
butterfly
With a wingspan of 35 to 50 millimeters, the moths belong to the small ribbons of the order ( Catocala ). The color of the upper forewing varies from light brown to gray-brown. Inner and outer transverse lines are black-brown and strongly jagged. A sub- kidney flaw stands out brightly. On the strong yellow colored upper side of the hind wing there is a wide black band. The lack of a further, central black band, which most types of ribbon types show, is typical of this type. A small black spot stands out at the anal corner. On the yellow-brown undersides of the wings, strongly contrasting dark-brown transverse bands and spots can be seen. The abdomen is yellowish.
Caterpillar
Adult caterpillars are light gray in color and slightly darkly streaked. The fifth body segment is slightly humped and has a dark saddle below. The fringe hair is sparse, but relatively long.
Similar species
The moths of Catocala lineella are darker in overall appearance and were previously listed as a subspecies of Catocala amica . Since individual tests using the DNA barcoding method revealed values that were very close to one another, species affiliation is under discussion.
distribution and habitat
Catocala amica is widespread in Ontario and Québec, as well as the eastern, southeastern and central regions of the United States . The species primarily inhabits oak forests.
Way of life
The nocturnal, univoltine moths can be found between June and September. You visit artificial light sources and baits . The caterpillars feed on the leaves of oak species ( Quercus ). The species overwinters in the egg stage.
Individual evidence
- ↑ Comparison of C. amica vs. C. lineella at BugGuide (Iowa State University, Department of Entomology)
- ^ Locations according to information from Mississippi State University
