Agonopterix robiniella
(Packard, 1870)
Four-dotted Agonopterix Moth, Locust Leaf Roller
Agonopterix robiniella is a small in the Depressariidae, commonly known as the four-dotted agonopterix moth or leaf roller. It is to eastern North America and is tightly associated with black locust trees. The is named for the characteristic pattern of four dark spots on its . are leaf rollers that feed exclusively on Robinia pseudoacacia.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agonopterix robiniella: /ˌæɡəˈnɒptərɪks roʊˌbɪniˈɛlə/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Agonopterix by the combination of with brick red mottling, two black discal spots at the third (giving the 'four-dotted' appearance when both are visible), and the dark before the . The specific association with black (Robinia pseudoacacia) and provides additional diagnostic context. coloration (greyish fuscous with dark edge) differs from some congeneric species with paler hindwings.
Images
Habitat
Deciduous forests and wooded areas where black (Robinia pseudoacacia) occurs. Includes both natural woodlands and disturbed or planted areas with locust trees. Found at various elevations within the 's range.
Distribution
Eastern North America: Nova Scotia to Georgia, west to Oklahoma, north to Illinois, Michigan, and southern Ontario. Core range centers on the distribution of its , Robinia pseudoacacia.
Seasonality
active from June to October. Single or possibly partial second inferred from extended period; precise not documented.
Diet
feed exclusively on leaves of Robinia pseudoacacia (black ). do not feed; mouthparts reduced or non-functional.
Host Associations
- Robinia pseudoacacia - larval sole known
Life Cycle
stage not described in detail. are leaf rollers, feeding within rolled or folded leaves of black . likely occurs in leaf litter or soil, though specific site not documented. emerge in summer and persist into autumn.
Behavior
construct leaf rolls by folding or rolling black leaves, feeding within this shelter. are and attracted to light. No migratory documented.
Ecological Role
on black . Acts as a /roller, causing minor to moderate of trees. Serves as for including birds and . No significant role as .
Human Relevance
Minor pest of black in plantations or ornamental settings, though damage is generally limited and not economically significant. The 'locust leaf roller' reflects its association with this forestry . Occasionally encountered by and naturalists.
Similar Taxa
- Agonopterix alstroemerianaSimilar size and general appearance, but has different pattern without the two distinct discal spots; feeds on poison hemlock rather than legumes
- Agonopterix arenellaOverlapping range and similar , but pattern differs with more uniform fuscous shading and less distinct ground color; plants include umbellifers
- Depressaria speciesFormerly classified in same ; distinguished by and characters, though field identification requires dissection or association
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Depressaria robiniella by Packard in 1870 (some sources cite 1869 for the basionym), later transferred to Agonopterix based on revised of Depressariidae.
Conservation status
Not evaluated by IUCN; appears secure throughout range given widespread and extensive suitable .