Coleophora acamtopappi

Busck, 1915

A case-bearing in the Coleophoridae, described by Busck in 1915. The species is known from California and has specialized larval associations with specific plants. Larvae construct distinctive three-valved silken cases and feed internally on seeds.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coleophora acamtopappi: /kɒliˈɒfərə əˌkæmtəpəˈpaɪ/

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Identification

identification requires examination of genitalia or ; no reliable external morphological characters are documented for distinguishing this from . Larvae can be recognized by their trivalved tubular silken case and association with plant seeds.

Habitat

Associated with dry where plants Acamptopappus sphaerocephalus (rayless goldenhead) and Coreopsis occur; likely desert scrub and coastal sage in California.

Distribution

North America; documented from California, United States.

Diet

Larvae feed on seeds of Acamptopappus sphaerocephalus and Coreopsis .

Host Associations

  • Acamptopappus sphaerocephalus - larval food plantseeds
  • Coreopsis - larval food plantseeds

Life Cycle

Larvae construct a trivalved, tubular silken case. Complete details including number of instars and site are not documented.

Behavior

Larvae create and inhabit a three-part silken tubular case, a characteristic of the Coleophora.

Ecological Role

Seed on specific asteraceous plants; may influence seed set and plant in localized areas.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Coleophora species are morphologically similar and require dissection or molecular analysis for reliable identification; larval case structure and plant association provide the most practical distinguishing characters.

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