A revision of the Schinia volupia (Fitch) species complex (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Heliothinae)
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Published on: April 19, 2024
Michael G Pogue1, Gary D Ouellette, Charles E Harp
1Systematic Entomology Laboratory, PSI, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Department ofAgriculture, c/o Smithsonian Institution, PO. Box 37012, NMNH, MRC-1 68, Washington, DC 20013-7012, USA. michael.pogue@ars.usda.gov
Abstract:
DNA barcode analysis of cytochrome oxidase I (COI) could not differentiate between the species of the Schinia volupia (Fitch, 1868) complex including S. volupia, S. masoni Smith, S. fulleri (McElvare, 1961); S. sanrafaeli Opler, 2004; S. miniana (Grote, 1881); and S. biforma Smith, 1906. Genitalic characters could only differentiate S. biforma from the S. volupia complex. Based on forewing color and pattern, larval host plant utilization, and geographic distribution, S. volupia, S. sanrafaeli, S. fulleri, and S. miniana are recognized as valid species and S. masoni is considered a new synonym of S. volupia. Schinia volupia, S.fulleri, S. sanrafaeli, S. miniana, and S. biforma are diagnosed and described. A variety of adult images are presented to show the range of variation among these species. Male and female genitalia of all included taxa are illustrated. Host plant utilization is discussed and illustrated. Distribution maps for examined specimens are provided.
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