Triclonella pergandeella
Busck, 1900
sweetclover root borer moth, Bush-clover triclonella
Triclonella pergandeella is a small with a wingspan of approximately 14 mm, found in the southeastern and mid-Atlantic United States. are active from March through October. The larvae are root borers that feed on Lespedeza and Clitoria , reaching about 12 mm in length with a distinctive yellow .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Triclonella pergandeella: /trɪˌklɒn.əˈlɛl.ə pɜːrˌɡænˈdiːl.ə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The yellow of the larva is a notable feature. are small with approximately 14 mm wingspan. Specific diagnostic characters for distinguishing this from other Triclonella species are not documented in available sources.
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 14 mm. Full-grown larvae reach about 12 mm in length with a yellow .
Habitat
Associated with plants Lespedeza and Clitoria , which occur in open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
Distribution
United States: District of Columbia, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas.
Seasonality
active from March to October.
Diet
Larvae feed on roots of Lespedeza and Clitoria .
Host Associations
- Lespedeza - larval larvae feed on roots
- Clitoria - larval larvae feed on roots
Life Cycle
Larval stage bores into roots of plants. Full-grown larvae reach approximately 12 mm. and other life stage details not documented.
Behavior
Larvae are root borers, feeding internally within plant roots.
Ecological Role
As a root-boring herbivore, larvae likely influence plant and may contribute to nutrient cycling through their feeding activities.
Similar Taxa
- Other Triclonella speciesSimilar small size and general ; specific distinguishing features for T. pergandeella require detailed examination not documented in general sources.
More Details
Family placement
Sources conflict on placement: Wikipedia and NCBI list Cosmopterigidae, while Catalogue of Life and GBIF list Momphidae. This reflects ongoing taxonomic revision in the Gelechioidea superfamily.