Himmacia huachucella
(Busck, 1908)
Himmacia huachucella is a small in the Depressariidae, described by August Busck in 1908. It is known from Arizona in the southwestern United States. The has a wingspan of 21–25 mm and exhibits distinctive salmon-ochreous forewings. Larvae feed on specific oak species, including Quercus hypoleucoides and Quercus arizonica.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Himmacia huachucella: /hɪˈmæʃiə hwɑːtʃuːˈsɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar Depressariidae by the unicolorous salmon ochreous forewings with slightly redder , combined with the light ochreous fuscous hindwings that darken marginally. The specific wing coloration and Arizona distribution help separate it from .
Habitat
Associated with oak woodlands; occurs in areas supporting oaks Quercus hypoleucoides and Quercus arizonica.
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, southwestern United States.
Diet
Larvae feed on Quercus hypoleucoides (silverleaf oak) and Quercus arizonica (Arizona white oak). diet unknown.
Host Associations
- Quercus hypoleucoides - larval
- Quercus arizonica - larval
Ecological Role
Larval herbivore on oak ; contributes to oak leaf litter processing and nutrient cycling in woodland .
Similar Taxa
- Other Himmacia speciesSimilar size and characteristics; distinguished by wing coloration and geographic distribution
- Other DepressariidaeSimilar body plan; separated by specific wing pattern and association