Coleophora atriplicivora

Cockerell, 1898

Coleophora atriplicivora is a case-bearing in the Coleophoridae, described by Cockerell in 1898. The larvae are seed feeders, specializing on Atriplex and Suaeda species. Like other Coleophora species, the larvae construct distinctive tubular silken cases for protection.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coleophora atriplicivora: /koˌleˈɒfɔːrə əˌtrɪplɪˈsɪvərə/

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Identification

Larvae can be identified by their trivalved, tubular silken case—a three-part structure characteristic of many Coleophora . The specific epithet "atriplicivora" indicates association with Atriplex plants. identification likely requires genitalia examination or analysis, as Coleophora species are often morphologically similar.

Distribution

United States, including New Mexico.

Diet

Larvae feed on seeds of Atriplex and Suaeda .

Host Associations

  • Atriplex - larval food plant (seeds)
  • Suaeda - larval food plant (seeds)

Life Cycle

Larvae create a trivalved, tubular silken case.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Coleophora speciesMany Coleophora are morphologically similar and require dissection or molecular analysis for reliable identification. Larval plant association and case structure may help distinguish C. atriplicivora.

More Details

Taxonomic note

The specific epithet "atriplicivora" combines the Atriplex with the Latin suffix -vora (feeding on), directly indicating its specialized diet.

Sources and further reading