Antispila aurirubra
Braun, 1915
Antispila aurirubra is a small North American in the Heliozelidae, described by Annette Frances Braun in 1915. It is to California and is associated with Cornus (dogwood) as larval . The species exhibits distinctive metallic coloration on the and forewings.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Antispila aurirubra: /ænˈtɪspiːlə ˌɔːrɪˈruːbrə/
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Identification
The metallic greenish-golden to reddish-bronze forewing coloration distinguishes this from most other North American Heliozelidae. The purple-tinted hindwing apex is an additional diagnostic feature. Within its California range, it may be separated from other Antispila species by association (Cornus) and the specific mine .
Appearance
Small with wingspan of 7–8 mm. and forewings lustrous with variable coloration: greenish golden to brilliant reddish bronze depending on light direction. Hindwings dark gray, becoming purple toward the apex.
Habitat
Associated with supporting Cornus . Specific habitat requirements beyond presence have not been documented.
Distribution
to California, United States. No documented range expansion or introduced .
Diet
Larvae feed on Cornus (dogwoods). do not feed; mouthparts are reduced or absent as in other Heliozelidae.
Host Associations
- Cornus - larval Larvae mine leaves of plant
Life Cycle
Larvae are leaf miners, creating brownish blotch mines in Cornus leaves. occurs within the mine; mature larvae cut out an oval shield from the leaf for pupation, a characteristic of the Heliozelidae.
Behavior
Larvae construct blotch mines in leaves of Cornus . At the end of larval development, the larva cuts an oval section from the leaf (termed a 'shield') in which it pupates.
Ecological Role
on native Cornus . impacts on plants have not been quantified.
Human Relevance
No documented economic or horticultural significance. Not known to be .
Similar Taxa
- Antispila treitschkiellaEuropean also associated with Cornus; distinguished by geographic range (Europe vs. California) and subtle morphological differences
- Antispila petryiEuropean on common dogwood; distinguished by geographic separation and larval
More Details
Taxonomic notes
The was described by Annette Frances Braun, a prolific American lepidopterist, in 1915. It is one of several North American Antispila species associated with Cornus.
Research gaps
Detailed studies of , seasonal , and have not been published for this .