Protoptila cora Flint 1983

Protoptila cora

This species and P. ensifera Flint are closely related, although easily distinguished. In P. cora the eighth sternum is produced and bifid, the tenth tergum is elongate, and the apex of the central tube of the aedeagus is broadly enlarged.

ADULT.—Length of forewing, 3 mm. Color in alcohol brown; forewing with an indication of a pale transverse line at the chord. Sixth sternum with a central process, half length of sternum.

Male Genitalia: Eighth sternum broadly produced posteriad, with apex bifid. Ninth sternum rounded anteroventrally, produced into eighth sternum and appearing fused with it at midlength, forming a black spot from which extend 2 elongate processes overlying dorsolateral margins of eighth sternum. Tenth tergum elongate, tip slightly bifid. Aedeagus with typical basodorsal lobe and midlength complex; central tube slender, sclerotized dorsally, ending in several sclerotized plates; lateral process with membranous base, apical spine long, slender, and twisted beneath central tube.

MATERIAL.—Holotype (male): PARAGUAY, DPTO. AMAMBAY, Río Aquidabán, Cerro Corá, 29 Nov 1973, O.S. Flint, Jr., USNM Type 100471.

Paratypes: Same data as holotype, 17.