Species Rhyacionia versicolor - Hodges#2888

2888

Rhyacionia versicolor Powell, 1978

Phylogenetic sequence #620716

Specific epithet for its wings "rust orange and tinged with iridescent rose purplish in the distal third." (1)

FWL: 8.4-10mm (male) 10.2-11.6mm (female) (1)

Adult:  Labial palps elongate ● FW Ground color whitish, irregularly overlaid with golden in transverse striae and rust orange in broad blotches, concentrated near base and beyond middle ● FW Length 3.3 times width, and costa nearly straight ● Female as described for male except larger and FW slightly broader, length 3.0 to 3.1 times width, and the golden banding generally broader and more contrasting than in male. (1)

Holotype                     Paratype

Distribution & Flight-period Chart (2)

The host is unknown. The locality is a mixed conifer and oak forest with 12 pine species, of which Pinus durangensis and P. cooperi are the most abundant (Thomas 1966). (1)

This species resembles R. flammicolor in external features, and in female genitalia. However, it can be distinguished from versicolor by the male genitalia. (1)

See pinned images of Rhyacionia on MPG

Moth Photographers Group – images are needed for this moth (2)