Polygrammodes oxydalis
| Polygrammodes oxydalis | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Lepidoptera |
| Family: | Crambidae |
| Genus: | Polygrammodes |
| Species: | P. oxydalis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Polygrammodes oxydalis (Guenée, 1854)
| |
| Synonyms | |
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Polygrammodes oxydalis is a moth in the family Crambidae. It was described by Achille Guenée in 1854.[1] It is found in the southern United States, where it has been recorded from Georgia, Florida and southern Texas.[2] It has also been reported from Costa Rica.[3] Adults have been recorded on wing from May to October. The larvae feed on the roots of Vernonia species.[4]
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Habitat and Distribution
[edit]Polygrammodes oxydalis is predominantly found in the southern regions of the United States, particularly in states such as Georgia, Florida, and Texas.[5] Its range extends to Central America, with confirmed sightings in Costa Rica. The moth inhabits environments where its larval host plants,[6] particularly those in the Vernonia genus[7] (often referred to as ironweeds), thrive. These plants typically grow in disturbed areas, open fields, and along roadsides, providing ample feeding opportunities for the larvae.[8] The adult moths are most active during the warmer months, generally from May to October, coinciding with the blooming periods of their host plants. This timing is crucial for ensuring that larvae have adequate food sources upon hatching.[9]
Morphological Characteristics
The adult moths exhibit a wingspan of approximately 25 to 30 mm. The forewings are characterized by a distinctive pattern that includes shades of brown and yellow, often with darker markings. The hindwings are lighter, typically featuring a whitish color that enhances their visibility during flight. The physical appearance of P. oxydalis not only aids in camouflage against predators but also plays a role in mate selection and species recognition, critical for reproductive success in moths.
Life Cycle and Behavior
The life cycle of Polygrammodes oxydalis begins with the female laying eggs on or near the roots of Vernonia plants. After hatching, the larvae (caterpillars) burrow into the soil to feed on the plant's roots. This feeding behavior is crucial for their development and can sometimes lead to noticeable damage to the host plants.[10] The larvae undergo several instar stages, culminating in pupation. The pupae are typically formed in the soil, where they undergo metamorphosis into adult moths. This underground lifestyle offers some protection from predators and environmental stresses. Adults are nocturnal and exhibit typical moth behaviors, such as attraction to light sources during the night. Their activity patterns align with the availability of food sources and mating opportunities.
Ecological Role
Polygrammodes oxydalis plays a vital role in its ecosystem as both a pollinator and a prey species. Adult moths are known to visit flowers while seeking nectar, contributing to the pollination of various plants, including their host plants.As larvae, they contribute to the breakdown of organic matter in the soil, which aids in nutrient cycling. [11] Their feeding habits can impact plant health, potentially influencing the distribution and abundance of Vernonia and related species. They serve as a food source for various predators, including birds, other insects, and small mammals, thereby playing an integral part in the food web.[citation needed]
References
[edit]- ^ Nuss, M.; et al. (2003–2014). "GlobIZ search". Global Information System on Pyraloidea. Retrieved July 15, 2014.
- ^ "801335.00 – 5228.1 – Polygrammodes oxydalis – (Guenée, 1854)". North American Moth Photographers Group. Mississippi State University. Retrieved August 15, 2018.
- ^ "Taxonomy Browser: Polygrammodes oxydalis". Barcode of Life Data System. Retrieved August 15, 2018.
- ^ Heiman, Maury J. (October 23, 2013). "Species Polygrammodes oxydalis - Hodges#5228.1". BugGuide. Retrieved August 15, 2018.
- ^ de Joannis, J. (1919-01-31). "Une Visite a la Collection de Microlépidoptères d'Achille Guenée". Annales de la Société entomologique de France. 88 (1–2): 1–40. doi:10.1080/21686351.1919.12279919. ISSN 0037-9271.
- ^ Carlson, John C.; Fox, Mark S.; McClarin, Jim (2012). "Passive Surveillance in Medical Entomology Using BugGuide". American Entomologist. 58 (1): 29–31. doi:10.1093/ae/58.1.0029. ISSN 2155-9902.
- ^ "Suggestions For Collecting And Observing Moths", Moths of Western North America, University of California Press, pp. 321–328, 2019-12-31, doi:10.1525/9780520943773-015, ISBN 978-0-520-94377-3, retrieved 2024-10-28
- ^ Palanisamy, Giri; San gil, Inigo (2010-07-03). "The Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)". SciVee. doi:10.4016/19006.01 (inactive 2024-11-13). Retrieved 2024-10-28.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of November 2024 (link) - ^ Wagner, David L.; Schweitzer, Dale F.; Sullivan, J. Bolling; Reardon, Richard C. (2012-01-01). Owlet Caterpillars of Eastern North America. Princeton University Press. doi:10.1515/9781400838295. ISBN 978-1-4008-3829-5.
- ^ "LIFE CYCLE", The Lives of Moths, Princeton University Press, pp. 15–47, 2022-04-26, doi:10.2307/j.ctv1z2hmk7.6, ISBN 978-0-691-23036-8, retrieved 2024-10-28
- ^ Prasser, N. P.; Hild, A. L. (2016-09-01). "Competitive interactions between an exotic annual, Halogeton glomeratus, and 10 North American native species". Native Plants Journal. 17 (3): 244–255. doi:10.3368/npj.17.3.244. ISSN 1522-8339.
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