Probole

Probole
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Geometridae
Genus: Probole
Species

disputed, see text

Probole is a genus of moths in the family Geometridae, the geometer moths. It is a Nearctic genus distributed throughout Canada and much of the United States.[1]

The taxonomy of this genus has never been clear. In 2007 it was revised using evidence from studies of morphology, mitochondrial DNA, and development. These studies suggested that all the moths in the genus are actually members of a single species, Probole amicaria, making the genus monotypic. It is simply a variable species, with sexual dimorphism as well as variability across its geographical range, within a single population, and even within a single brood.[1] Adult Probole are also seasonally dimorphic.[2] Other moths of the genus, which have included Probole alienaria and P. nepiasaria, are now treated as variations within the species.[1]

Probole amicaria is known commonly as the friendly pobole and the red-cheeked looper.[1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Tomon, T. J. A revision of the genus Probole Herrich-Schäffer (Lepidoptera: Geometridae). Ten-Minute Papers, Section A. Systematics, Morphology and Evolution. Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting. San Diego, California. December 12, 2007.
  2. ↑ Wagner D. L. Caterpillars of Eastern North America: A Guide to Identification and Natural History. Princeton University Press. 2010. pg. 182.
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