Ochromolopis ramapoella

(Kearfott, 1903)

A small in the Epermeniidae with a wingspan of approximately 15 mm. First described by William D. Kearfott in 1903. The is distributed across northern North America, with active from May to July. Larvae feed specifically on the fruit of Comandra umbellata.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ochromolopis ramapoella: /ˌoʊkrəˈmɒləpɪs ˌræməˈpoʊɛlə/

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Identification

Distinguished from related Epermeniidae by the specific arrangement of black discal dots on the forewing at one-third, two-thirds, and three-fourths positions, with the outermost dot enlarged. The purplish-gray suffusion on the forewing and overall light gray ground color with white speckling are additional diagnostic features. Similar in the Ochromolopis may share general coloration but differ in spot pattern and wing markings.

Appearance

Wingspan approximately 15 mm. Forewings light gray with white irroration (speckling) and scattered dark fuscous . Black dots present in the disc at one-third, two-thirds, and three-fourths positions, with the outermost dot larger. fourth of forewing with clouded purplish-gray suffusion and scattered dark fuscous scales. Costal margin with slight blackish irroration dots. Hindwings gray.

Distribution

North America: recorded from Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan (Canada); Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, New York, and Ohio (United States); and Quebec (Canada).

Seasonality

active from May to July.

Diet

Larvae feed on the fruit of Comandra umbellata (bastard toadflax).

Host Associations

  • Comandra umbellata - larval food plantfruit

Similar Taxa

  • Other Ochromolopis speciesSimilar small size and general Epermeniidae ; distinguished by specific forewing spot pattern and suffusion coloration

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Sources and further reading