Sterictiphora serotina

Sterictiphora serotina is a in the Argidae. Larvae feed on Prunus species, including black cherry (Prunus serotina), and produce distinctive zigzag feeding damage on leaf margins. The species is native to North America and has been documented in association with deciduous forest .

Sterictiphora serotina by (c) Mark Richman, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Mark Richman. Used under a CC-BY license.Sterictiphora serotina by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Sterictiphora serotina by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sterictiphora serotina: //ˌstɛrɪkˈtɪfərə sɛˈroʊtɪnə//

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Identification

Larvae create characteristic zigzag feeding patterns on leaf edges, moving from the margin toward the midrib. This pattern is diagnostic for the Sterictiphora and distinguishes it from the similar elm zigzag sawfly (Aproceros leucopoda), which feeds on Ulmus rather than Prunus. are small with typical argid .

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Habitat

Deciduous forests, particularly dry-mesic upland oak-hickory forests where Prunus occur. Associated with forest edges and open woodland conditions.

Distribution

North America. Documented in Missouri in association with Prunus serotina in dry-mesic upland deciduous forest.

Diet

Larvae feed on Prunus , including Prunus serotina (black cherry).

Host Associations

  • Prunus serotina - larval plantblack cherry

Behavior

Larvae feed in a zigzag pattern from the leaf edge toward the midrib, creating distinctive and easily recognizable damage.

Ecological Role

Herbivore on Prunus in forest .

Similar Taxa

  • Aproceros leucopodaAlso produces zigzag larval feeding damage, but feeds exclusively on Ulmus (elm) rather than Prunus. Native to East Asia and in North America.

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