Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
First described in 1906 by Harrison Gray Dyar, Jr. as Apatelodes seraphica
Olceclostera seraphica
Explanation of Names
seraphica is Latin for "of or like a seraph" (a seraph is a type of angel). In the original description, Dyar mentions that it was "Nearly allied to angelica Grote", so the name is no doubt a reference to that species.
Range
Southwestern Texas, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley, west into New Mexico and Arizona
Food
Larvae have been noted feeding on Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis) and certain Ash species (Fraxinus greggii, F. pennsylvanica)
Remarks
"the moth Olceclostera seraphica has genitals that resemble a musical instrument: the male rubs one part of his privates against another, producing vibrations with which to thrill his mate."
Internet References
Brooklyn Museum Science Bulletin, v.1, p.197 Dyar's original description of the species.
