Ulolonche disticha (Morrison, 1875)
93-3124
ID : Cassia Co.
Formation Cyn, 6315 ft
42.0, -113.1
June 21, 2014, L Crabo & C Coughlin.
Specimen courtesy of LGCC
Photograph copyright: Merrill A. Peterson
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Similar Species
Ulolonche dilecta Data Filters
Date Range
Elevation (ft)
Identification
Adults
Ulolonche disticha is a small to medium-sized noctuid moth (FW length 12–13 mm) with two-toned tan forewing with light base and dark distal portion separated by an undulating black medial area that flies in southeastern Idaho during early summer. The lighter basal half of the forewing occasionally has a red or pulple tine. The distal wing is dull gray or brownish gray. The gray basal, antemedial, and postmedial lines are double, filled with the ground color. All of these lines are relatively obscure. The medial line, in contrast, is black with sharply demarcated inner and diffuse outer edges. This line is focally outwardly convex at the cubitus vein. A black spot precedes the subterminal line on the costa. This line is not visible otherwise. The reniform spot is vague, while the other spots are absent. The hindwing is brownish gray, slightly lighter at the base, with barely darker veins and slightly lighter fringe. The head and thorax match the darker distal wing color. The male antenna is filiform, ciliate ventrally.
This species is unlikely to be confused with any other Pacific Northwest species other than Ulolonche dilecta. These moths are so similar that identification of the Oregon Ulolonche specimens as U. dilecta and Idaho ones as U. disticha is based predominantly on the known distributions of these species in adjacent areas. Ulolonche dilecta occurs in northern California and U. disticha is found in the central Rocky Mountain region. Because of this, our species can be identified by locality. In general, U. disticha is a slightly smaller and lighter colored moth than U. dilecta.
Habitat
The few Pacific Northwest specimens were collected in sparsely forested steppe habitats.
Distribution
Pacific Northwest
Ulolonche disticha has only been found in southeastern Idaho in the Pacific Northwest.
Global
Life History
Larvae
The early stages are unknown.
Adults
Adults fly during early summer in Idaho, likely from mid-June to early July based on a few specimens and the fact that these are slightly worn. They are nocturnal and come to light.
Economic Importance
None.
