... based on Jim Vargo's male specimen at MPG. -- 8614

by saying I think it looks like a Bulia species. Apparently, Michael Pogue and Carolina Laughlin revised the genus in 2002 (J. Lepid. Soc. 56: 129-151.) and I don't know what the results were, but their earlier report in 1999 says that "No distinguishing characters were found in their wing pattern and coloration." refering to B. deducta and similaris.

Both species are listed for Arizona on Bruce Walsh's page, and for Texas on Dale Clark's page. I wonder whether this is another situation similar to the Xestia dolosa/c-nigrum one ?

..."The only species in Bulia that can be readily separated from the others is B. confirmans, with its small size and white anal lunule in the hindwing. All other species of Bulia, with the yellow anal lunule in the hindwing, can only be identified by genetic characters."

However, their range maps clearly indicate that B. deducta is the only species of Bulia to be expected anywhere near Phoenix. The only record for B. similaris in AZ or NM is "an isolated record from the Baboquivari Mountains in south central Arizona." [virtually on the Mexican border]

All other species of Bulia are found south of the United States.

for the additional info. Turns out that Pogue & Laughlin's paper is online, so I linked to it in the Guide.

Image moved from ID Request to new species page.