Sorhagenia nimbosus
(Braun, 1915)
midrib gall moth, Coffeeberry Midrib Gall Moth
Sorhagenia nimbosus is a small in the Cosmopterigidae, commonly known as the midrib gall moth or Coffeeberry Midrib Gall Moth. First described by Annette Frances Braun in 1915, this is known from the Pacific coast of North America. The refers to its association with coffeeberry plants (Frangula species), where larval feeding induces characteristic galls along leaf midribs.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Sorhagenia nimbosus: //sɔɹˈhædʒɪniə nɪmˈboʊsəs//
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Identification
The can be recognized by its association with coffeeberry plants bearing midrib galls. are small typical of the Cosmopterigidae, with narrow wings and relatively plain coloration. Specific diagnostic morphological features for field identification are not well documented in available sources.
Images
Habitat
Associated with coffeeberry (Frangula ), suggesting riparian areas, woodlands, and chaparral where these plants occur.
Distribution
Pacific coast of North America: recorded from British Columbia, Washington, and California.
Seasonality
have been recorded on wing from March to October.
Diet
Larvae feed on coffeeberry (Frangula ), inducing galls along leaf midribs.
Host Associations
- Frangula - larval plantcoffeeberry; larvae induce midrib galls
Ecological Role
As a gall-former, the larvae modify plant tissue, potentially affecting leaf function and serving as a food source for specialized .
Human Relevance
Minor economic or horticultural significance; primarily of interest to lepidopterists and those studying plant-insect interactions.
Similar Taxa
- Other Sorhagenia speciesSeveral occur in North America; accurate identification requires examination of genitalia or association with specific plants and gall .
- Other midrib-galling LepidopteraGall and plant specificity are key distinguishing features.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The placement in Cosmopterigidae (superfamily Gelechioidea) is well established. The specific epithet 'nimbosus' refers to cloudiness or storminess, possibly alluding to coloration.
Research gaps
Detailed , larval , and precise gall induction mechanisms remain poorly documented in published literature.