Identifying Zale lunata vs. Zale minerea from photos
Zale lunata (Lunate Zale) and Zale minerea (Colorful Zale) both have variable – and overlapping – coloration and patterning. A key character for separating these two species is the shape of the postmedian (PM) line:
Looking at the overall shape of the PM line segment that’s perpendicular to the leading edge of the wing:
For further context/considerations around identifying these species, see this iNat journal post by paul_dennehy.
Images kindly provided by @becksnyc:
Zale lunata
Zale minerea
References
Zale lunata - Moths of North Carolina
Zale lunata - Pacific Northwest Moths
Zale minerea - Moths of North Carolina
Zale minerea - Pacific Northwest Moths
@mark935 @allen_barlow @stomlins701
Comments
Thanks!
@mark935 @allen_barlow @stomlins701 @pufferchung
FYI -- image issues resolved. The embedded photos are now visible.
Thank you!
This is an outstanding illustration of this key character. Many thanks!
@michael_lee_bierly I think you find this very interesting.
This is great, very helpful!
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