Ophiomyia abutilivora

Spencer, 1986

Ophiomyia abutilivora is a of leaf-mining in the , described by Spencer in 1986. The species epithet 'abutilivora' indicates a larval association with plants in the Abutilon (Malvaceae). Like other members of Ophiomyia, the likely form internal mines in plant stems or leaves. The genus is characterized by reduced and distinctive larval feeding habits.

Ophiomyia abutilivora by (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sam Kieschnick. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ophiomyia abutilivora: /ˌoʊfiˈoʊmiə əˌbjuːtɪlɪˈvɔːrə/

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Identification

Identification requires examination of and patterns characteristic of the Ophiomyia. The specific association with Abutilon may aid in field recognition. Distinguishing O. abutilivora from depends on subtle morphological differences in male terminalia and possibly larval mine characteristics on the host plant.

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Diet

feed internally on Abutilon (Malvaceae), forming stem or leaf mines.

Host Associations

  • Abutilon - larval plant of flowering plants in Malvaceae; specific not documented

Similar Taxa

  • Other Ophiomyia speciesMany share similar external and leaf-mining habits; reliable separation requires detailed examination of male and plant associations

More Details

Nomenclature

The specific epithet 'abutilivora' combines the plant Abutilon with the Latin suffix '-vora' meaning 'eating', directly indicating the trophic relationship.

Taxonomic history

Described by Kenneth A. Spencer in 1986, a leading specialist on . Spencer's descriptions typically included detailed plant data and morphological illustrations.

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Sources and further reading