Coleophora asterophagella
McDunnough, 1944
Coleophora asterophagella is a case-bearing in the Coleophoridae, described by McDunnough in 1944. The is known from central Canada, with records from Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba. Larvae are specialized feeders on Aster species, constructing distinctive annulate (ringed) cases from plant material.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coleophora asterophagella: /koˈlɛ.ə.fɔ.ra æˌstɛ.roʊ.fəˈdʒɛl.la/
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Identification
can be distinguished from other Coleophora by genitalia examination; specific external diagnostic features are not well documented in available sources. Larvae are recognized by their annulate cases and association with Aster plants. The case structure—ringed or segmented in appearance—differs from the smooth or trivalved cases of some .
Habitat
Associated with supporting Aster , which suggests open meadows, prairie edges, and disturbed grassy areas.
Distribution
Recorded from Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba in Canada.
Diet
Larvae feed on leaves of Aster .
Host Associations
- Aster - larval food plantleaves
Life Cycle
Larvae construct annulate cases from silk and plant material. Case-bearing habit is characteristic of the ; specific details of and timing are not documented.
Behavior
Larvae carry their cases while feeding and retreat inside when disturbed.
Ecological Role
Herbivore on Aster ; specific ecological impacts or interactions are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coleophora speciesMany share similar and case-bearing larval habits; identification requires examination of genitalia or plant association.
More Details
Nomenclature
The specific epithet 'asterophagella' directly references the larval diet on Aster ('astero-') and feeding ('-phaga'), combined with the diminutive suffix typical of many Coleophora names.