Sharplessi

Sharplessi is a genus of moths in the family Geometridae. The genus was first described by George H. Beutenmueller in 1901. Sharplessi moths are found in North America, primarily in the eastern United States. They are relatively small moths, with wingspans typically ranging from 2 to 3 centimeters. The forewings are usually mottled brown and gray, providing camouflage against tree bark. The hindwings are generally a lighter shade of gray.

The larvae of Sharplessi moths are known to feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees, including oak and maple species. Adult moths are nocturnal and are often attracted to lights. The life cycle of Sharplessi moths involves complete metamorphosis, with eggs hatching into larvae, which then pupate before emerging as adult moths.

The genus Sharplessi is named in honor of its describer, George H. Beutenmueller, who was an entomologist at the American Museum of Natural History. While the genus is not considered to be of significant economic importance, like many moth species, it plays a role in the broader ecosystem as a food source for birds and other predators, and as a pollinator. Further research into the specific ecological roles and distribution of individual Sharplessi species is ongoing within the entomological community.