Bergiantina, a new genus of agaristid moth (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract

Bergiantina, a new Agaristinae genus, is described. The genus contains 8 species. Three were previously assigned to Aucula Walker: Metagarista hilzingeri Berg, Euthisanotia magnifica Schaus, and Aucula schausi Jörgensen. Two were previously assigned to Erocha Walker: Heterocampa dolens Druce and Erocha trita Druce. Three new species are described: Bergiantina intermedia, B. parva, and B. familiae. Bergiantina can be distinguished from other Agaristinae by its distinctive forewing pattern with white patches or stripes associated with the postmedial line. Other diagnostic characters include: male genitalia with moderately asymmetric valves, aedoeagus with an apical sclerotized horn-like dorsal projection, and female genitalia with a thin, membranous ductus bursae 3x as long as anterior apophysis. Adults and male and female genitalia are described and illustrated, and a key to species provided. One new synonymy is established and two lectotypes are designated.