Olene dudgeoni Swinhoe comb. n.

Dasychira dudgeoni Swinhoe, 1907, Ann. Mag. nat. Hist. (7), 19: 203.

Pseudodura dasychiroides Strand 1914, Ent. Mitt., 3: 333.

Dasychira dudgeoni Swinhoe; Holloway, 1976: 51.

Diagnosis

This species resembles mendosa to some extent but the forewings are a darker, more leaden grey, with the transverse, black antemedial in a more basal position, without a pale blotch basal to it. No females have been seen: they may be flightless with vestigial wings.

Taxonomic notes

This species is best combined with Olene, the forewing facies having similarities with that of mendosa. However, the male genitalia have a narrower, more triangular uncus and strong saccus; the valves lack a dorsal arm. Pseudodura Strand is best retained at subgeneric level.

Geographical range

N.E. Himalaya to Taiwan and Sundaland.

Habitat preference

The species is infrequent, perhaps slightly commoner in montane habitats, but recorded from 300m to 1680m in recent surveys.

Genitalia: