https://doi.org/10.4081/nhs.2026.920
Phaiogramma faustinata (Millière 1868) (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) and Mythimna umbrigera (Saalmüller 1891) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): first records for mainland Italy
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Published: 2 July 2026
Knowledge about South Italian fauna of Lepidoptera is constantly increasing as result of ongoing faunistic surveys in different environments. In this study we reported the main faunal novelties found during the survey of macromoth fauna in the Regional Nature Reserve “Foce del fiume Mesima” using UV LED light traps. In detail, Phaiogramma faustinata (Millière 1868) and Mythimna umbrigera (Saalmüller 1891) are recorded for the first time for mainland Italy, marking an important expansion of its known distribution, which were previously recorded in Italy only for Sicily. Identification was carried out by analysing wing patterns and morphology of genitalia. Both findings highlight the critical role of scientific exploration in bridging knowledge gaps which is essential for effective ecosystem management. They also stress the need of continuous monitoring in sites devoted to nature conservation like the mouth of the Mesima River, a strategical site in the Mediterranean Basin for the detection of climate induced ecosystem changes.
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