Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Eulithis gracilineata (Guenée, [1858])
original combination Cidaria gracilineata Guenée, 1857
* phylogenetic sequence #211025
Identification
Lesser Grapevine Looper (
Eulithis diversilineata) is similar but smaller. Adults of
E. diversilineata and
E. gracilineata cannot be separated by appearance alone without rearing or dissection:
However, the forewing measures do not overlap (Lesser 12-15 mm; Greater, 16-19 mm). Thus, photographs with a millimeter rule are crucial for identification. Compare these images of
Lesser (left) and
Greater (right).
Another example of measuring the forewing can be seen on iNaturalist
here. The wingspan can also be used, though it may need to be corrected for posture: Lesser has a wingspan of 28–33 mm, Greater 35-40 mm.
Print References
Choi, Sei-Woong (2001) Phylogeny of Eulithis Hübner and Related Genera (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), with an Implication of Wing Pattern Evolution;
AMERICAN MUSUEM Novitates, no. 3318, 37 pp. (
PDF download)
Internet References
Strickland Museum species page, with description, size, habitat, range, life history
