Agonopterix eupatoriiella

(Chambers, 1878)

Agonopterix eupatoriiella is a small in the Depressariidae, first described from North America in 1878. It has a wingspan of approximately 24 mm and exhibits dark, dusted with distinctive streaking. The is associated with plants in the Asteraceae family, particularly Eupatorium species.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Agonopterix eupatoriiella: /ˌæɡəˈnɒptərɪks ˌjuːpətɔːriˈɛlə/

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Identification

The combination of small size (24 mm wingspan), dark fuscous-grey with blackish streaks, and pale greyish with purplish lustre distinguishes this . The specific pattern of streaking along the forewing is a feature. Similar Agonopterix species may lack the distinct costal streaking or show different coloration.

Appearance

Wingspan approximately 24 mm. dark to fuscous grey, dusted with blackish forming small streaks along the . pale greyish with a faint purplish lustre.

Habitat

Associated with including open woodlands, meadows, and riparian areas where Eupatorium , Verbesina alternifolia, and Carya ovata occur.

Distribution

North America: recorded from Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Quebec, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

Diet

feed on Eupatorium , Verbesina alternifolia (wingstem), and Carya ovata (shagbark hickory). feeding habits are not documented.

Host Associations

  • Eupatorium - larval multiple
  • Verbesina alternifolia - larval
  • Carya ovata - larval

Ecological Role

in larval stage; contributes to through leaf feeding on plants.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Agonopterix speciesSimilar size and general ; distinguished by pattern details, particularly the presence and arrangement of streaks

More Details

Original description

First described by Vactor Tousey Chambers in 1878, originally placed in Depressaria.

Taxonomic history

Basionym Depressaria eupatoriiella; transferred to Agonopterix, reflecting revised understanding of Depressariidae generic limits.

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Sources and further reading