SeasonalityThe only Alberta record is for early September.IdentificationA relatively large and robust geometrid, wings grey-brown with heavy, dark grey speckling. Forewing more elongate than usual for this group, with a slightly falcate tip and slight mid-margin points. Dark, jagged AM, PM and subterminal lines, hindwing slightly lighter and with PM line only.
The narrow forewing, large size and jagged transverse lines are unique among the larger fall-flying geometrids
Scientific NameSynaxis formosaHabitat
Prairie badlands.
Seasonality
The only Alberta record is for early September.
Identification
A relatively large and robust geometrid, wings grey-brown with heavy, dark grey speckling. Forewing more elongate than usual for this group, with a slightly falcate tip and slight mid-margin points. Dark, jagged AM,…
A relatively large and robust geometrid, wings grey-brown with heavy, dark grey speckling. Forewing more elongate than usual for this group, with a slightly falcate tip and slight mid-margin points. Dark, jagged AM, PM and subterminal lines, hindwing slightly lighter and with PM line only.
The narrow forewing, large size and jagged transverse lines are unique among the larger fall-flying geometrids
Life History
Unlike other species in this genus, formosa does not have bright yellowish colouration to mimic fall colours; it's colours are much more subdued, matching the light browns and greys of the end of summer in dry prairie…
Unlike other species in this genus, formosa does not have bright yellowish colouration to mimic fall colours; it's colours are much more subdued, matching the light browns and greys of the end of summer in dry prairie habitats. Virtually nothing is known of this species biology, and the immature stages are undescribed.
Conservation
Known in Canada from only two localities. More survey work needed.
Diet Info
The larval hostplants are unknown.
Range
Riske Creek to Lillooet, BC and Dinosaur Prov. Park, AB; south to southern CA and CO (McGuffin 1987, Fischer et al. 2000).
Citation
Page Citation for Synaxis formosa
Page Citation
"Species Details - Synaxis formosa, University of Alberta E.H. Strickland Entomological Museum." University of Alberta Museums Search Site, https://search.museums.ualberta.ca/g/2-4308. Accessed 04 Nov. 2024.
References
AuthorMcGuffin, W. C.
TitleGuide to the Geometridae of Canada (Lepidoptera): II. Subfamily Ennominae, 4
Publication Date1987
Series TitleMemoirs of the Entomological Society of Canada
Volume138
Pages182
Specimen Information
There is 1 specimen of this Species.
1 result plotted on map in 1 marker. Note: Only records with latitude and longitude coordinates are plotted on map.