Coleophora atromarginata
Braun, 1914
American Pistol Casebearer Moth
Coleophora atromarginata is a small in the Coleophoridae, commonly known as the American Pistol . The species was described by Braun in 1914. Its larvae construct distinctive pistol-shaped cases from silk and plant material, a characteristic of casebearer moths.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coleophora atromarginata: /kɒliːˈɒfərə ætroʊˌmɑːrdʒɪˈnɑːtə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The is distinguished by the pistol-shaped larval case, which tapers to a point and resembles a handgun in profile. are small with narrow wings; specific diagnostic features for separating this species from other Coleophora require examination of genitalia or detailed wing pattern analysis.
Distribution
Eastern North America. Documented from Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New Brunswick.
Diet
Larvae feed on leaves of Quercus platanoides, Quercus rubra, Prunus serotina, and of Betula, Carpinus, Ostrya, and Carya.
Host Associations
- Quercus platanoides - larval food plant
- Quercus rubra - larval food plant
- Prunus serotina - larval food plant
- Betula - larval food plant-level association
- Carpinus - larval food plant-level association
- Ostrya - larval food plant-level association
- Carya - larval food plant-level association
Life Cycle
Larvae construct portable silk cases covered with plant debris, which they carry while feeding. The pistol case is a distinctive tapered structure unique to this among casebearers.
Behavior
Larvae create and transport a pistol-shaped case throughout their feeding period. The case serves as protection and camouflage while the larva moves between feeding sites on plant leaves.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coleophora speciesMany construct larval cases, but the pistol-shaped case of C. atromarginata is distinctive in form and tapering profile.
More Details
Case morphology
The and epithet reference the unique pistol-shaped larval case, which distinguishes this species from other North American Coleophora that typically construct cylindrical or irregular cases.