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Pure Underwing

Catocala pura

Plate XXXV — Pure Underwing is Fig. 17

The moth is an inhabitant of the region of the Rocky Mountains.

← Rosalind Underwing Once-married Underwing →

2026 Editor's Note: The genus name Catocala translates from Ancient Greek as "Rear wings beautiful," referring to the colorful hindwings hidden beneath bark-patterned forewings. Carl Linnaeus established a tradition of giving these moths species names with a feminine or marital theme, leading to common names like the Once-married Underwing or the Oldwife Underwing. In the early 20th century, these moths were central to a scientific debate regarding whether insects could hear, as they showed unequivocal reactions to high-pitched sounds like whistles. (Ed: GG 2026-08-11)

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