Type-Based Morphological Reassessment of Nola yoshinensis and N. kanshireiensis (Lepidoptera, Nolidae), with Description of a Previously Misidentified New Species in Asia

Abstract

The identities of Nola yoshinensis (Wileman & West) and N. kanshireiensis (Wileman & South) have long been confused in East Asia, leading to repeated misidentifications in Korea and Japan. In this study, we re-examined the primary type material of both nominal species to clarify their true identities. Our results show that neither N. yoshinensis nor N. kanshireiensis occurs in Korea. Instead, specimens previously identified under these names represent a distinct species. We therefore describe Nola abscondita Cha sp. nov. based on adult external and genital morphology. Illustrations of the adults and genital structures of the new species, as well as its distribution in Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, are provided. Furthermore, we integrated citizen science data from iNaturalist to supplement the distributional data of the treated taxa. Notably, these extralimital records reveal previously undocumented occurrences, revealing an extended range of these species in broader regions of Asia. The taxonomic implications of this reassessment are discussed, resulting in the introduction of new synonymies.