A Review of Virbia (Formerly Holomelina) of America North of Mexico (Arctiidae: Arctiinae: Arctinii)

Abstract

The tiger moth genus Virbia Walker (Arctiinae: Arctiini) is redescribed and its biology and taxonomic history are reviewed. The recent placement of Holomelina Herrich-Schäffer as its junior synonym is examined. North of Mexico, 14 Virbia species are recognized, including two new species, V. fergusoni Zaspel and V. rindgei Cardé. Adult habitus photographs, a checklist, diagnoses, and complete descriptions are provided for all species. Genitalia of the new species are illustrated, and diagnostic character illustrations are provided for separating all previously described species. Locality information from over 12,000 specimens representing 16 museum collections [in the United States and Canada] is compiled and available in an electronic database on the Diversity of Life Website (at www.diversityoflife.org/virbia.html). As some species appear to be habitat specialists (e.g., V. lamae in bogs), photos of selected habitats are provided.