Coptodisca saliciella
(Clemens, 1861)
Coptodisca saliciella is a small in the , described by James Brackenridge Clemens in 1861. The is to North America, with confirmed records from California and Ohio. are that feed on willow species (Salix), specifically documented on Salix lasiolepis.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coptodisca saliciella: /kɒptoʊˈdɪskə ˌsælɪˈsɪlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
are small in the , characterized by narrow and a compact body. Larval mines on Salix leaves are distinctive: they are blotch mines, typically starting as a linear track that expands into a circular or irregular blotch. The mines often contain visible arranged in a central or scattered pattern. Similar Coptodisca on willows may require examination of or larval for definitive identification.
Habitat
Associated with riparian and wetland where willow (Salix) grow, including stream banks, marshes, and moist woodlands.
Distribution
North America; documented from California and Ohio.
Diet
feed on Salix , specifically documented on Salix lasiolepis (arroyo willow). They mine the leaves of their , feeding internally between the upper and lower leaf surfaces.
Host Associations
- Salix lasiolepis - larval primary documented ;
- Salix - larval -level association
Behavior
are , creating blotch mines in willow leaves. The mining produces visible damage patterns on foliage.
Ecological Role
As a , may influence leaf physiology and in willow-dominated . Specific ecological impacts have not been quantified.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coptodisca speciesMultiple Coptodisca mine Salix leaves; differentiation requires examination of mine , larval characteristics, or .
- Phyllonorycter species (Gracillariidae)Also on Salix, but typically create tentiform mines on the underside of leaves rather than blotch mines.
More Details
Nomenclature
Originally described as Aspidisca saliciella by Clemens in 1861, later transferred to Coptodisca.