Agonopterix lecontella
(Clemens, 1860)
Agonopterix lecontella is a small in the Depressariidae, first described from Pennsylvania in 1860. The is distinguished by its dark ocherous forewings with scattered blackish-brown dots. Its larvae are known to feed on the wild indigo Baptisia tinctoria. The species remains poorly documented, with few observations recorded.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agonopterix lecontella: /ˌæɡəˈnɒptərɪks lɪˈkɒntɛlə/
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Identification
The combination of dark ocherous forewings with fine blackish-brown dotting and pale grayish ocherous hindwings distinguishes this from many . In the Agonopterix, precise identification often requires examination of genitalia; the specific wing pattern described by Clemens (1860) provides the primary external diagnostic feature.
Appearance
have forewings that are dark ocherous with dispersed blackish-brown dots scattered across the wing surface. The hindwings are pale grayish ocherous. Wing patterning consists of fine speckling rather than bold markings or bands.
Habitat
Associated with supporting its larval plant Baptisia tinctoria, which grows in dry open woods, pine barrens, and sandy fields in eastern North America.
Distribution
Known from Pennsylvania, with the type locality presumably in that state. The full North American range is insufficiently documented due to limited collection and observation records.
Diet
Larvae feed on Baptisia tinctoria (wild indigo, horseflyweed). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Baptisia tinctoria - larval Fabaceae; wild indigo
Ecological Role
As a herbivore, the larvae likely contribute to natural of Baptisia tinctoria. The may serve as prey for including birds and spiders.
Human Relevance
No documented economic or cultural significance. The is of potential interest to lepidopterists and conservation biologists studying herbivores of native legumes.
Similar Taxa
- Other Agonopterix speciesMany share similar size and general wing shape; precise identification requires attention to the specific pattern of dark ocherous ground color with blackish-brown dotting described for A. lecontella, and often genitalia examination
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by James Brackenridge Clemens in 1860, one of the early American lepidopterists who documented the fauna of Pennsylvania and surrounding regions.
Conservation status
Data deficient; known from very few records and may be genuinely rare, locally restricted, or undercollected.