Synanthedon bibionipennis
(Boisduval, 1869)
Strawberry Crown Moth
Synanthedon bibionipennis is a in the , commonly known as the crown . are active from April to August and are . The has one per year. are borers that feed internally on the crowns and roots of various rosaceous plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Synanthedon bibionipennis: /sɪːˈnænθɪˌdɒn ˌbɪbiˌoʊnɪˈpɛnɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The small size (20 mm wingspan) and western North distribution help distinguish this from other Synanthedon. in this require close examination of or specific patterns for definitive identification. The combination of transparent , -mimicking , and association with rosaceous plants provides field clues.
Appearance
have a wingspan of approximately 20 mm. As a sesiid , the are largely transparent with reduced scaling along the margins, giving a -like appearance in . The body is slender with coloration typical of the .
Habitat
Associated with supporting its rosaceous plants, including agricultural settings, gardens, and wildlands where Fragaria, Rosa, Rubus, and Potentilla occur.
Distribution
to western North America: from Montana south to Texas, westward to the Pacific coast, and from British Columbia to California. and established in Hawaii.
Seasonality
are active from April to August. One per year.
Diet
feed internally on crowns and roots of various Rosaceae , including (Fragaria), rose (Rosa), raspberry/blackberry (Rubus), and cinquefoil (Potentilla).
Host Associations
- Fragaria - larval
- Rosa - larval
- Rubus - larval raspberry, blackberry
- Potentilla - larval cinquefoil
Life Cycle
One per year. are internal borers in crowns and roots. occurs within the host tissue or soil. emerge in spring and summer.
Behavior
are and active during daylight hours. Like most sesiids, they are generally not attracted to light traps. They exhibit -mimicking .
Ecological Role
As a borer in rosaceous plants, can weaken or kill plants by damaging crowns and root systems. This is considered a pest in agricultural contexts.
Human Relevance
Economic pest of and other rosaceous . Larval boring damage reduces vigor and yield. Management may involve cultural controls or targeted .
Similar Taxa
- Synanthedon acerniAnother North Synanthedon ; may overlap in range but associated with different (maple).
- Synanthedon scitulaAnother North Synanthedon that has been observed at blacklights, unlike most sesiids.
- Synanthedon fatiferaSimilar member that bores into Viburnum crowns rather than Rosaceae.
More Details
Light Trap Avoidance
Most sesiid , including this , are not attracted to standard . lures are more effective for and .
Introduced Range
Established in Hawaii as an , likely transported with material.