Dichomeris bipunctellus
(Walsingham, 1882)
Dichomeris bipunctellus is a small gelechiid described by Walsingham in 1882. It is distributed across eastern North America from Quebec to Florida and Louisiana. The is associated with bayberry plants (Myrica spp.) and has an extended period spanning most of the year.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichomeris bipunctellus: /daɪˈkɒmɛrɪs baɪˌpʌŋkˈtɛləs/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Dichomeris by the combination of two black discal dots on forewings—one larger and elongate before the middle, one smaller at end of —both with distinctive whitish scaling on and lower edges, plus eight marginal black dots at apex. The specific arrangement and scaling pattern of these dots separates it from .
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 17 mm. Forewings pale brownish ochreous with scattered black scales. Two prominent black discal dots: a larger elongate dot before the middle with whitish along and lower edges, and a smaller dot at end of similarly edged with whitish scales. Eight marginal black dots arranged around apex and margin. Hindwings pale greyish ochreous.
Habitat
Associated with coastal and wetland supporting plants Myrica gale, Myrica pensylvanica, and Myrica aspleniifolia. These bayberry typically occur in sandy soils, bogs, and coastal plain environments.
Distribution
Eastern North America: Quebec and Maine southward through the eastern United States to Florida and Louisiana. Distribution records from Canada and United States.
Seasonality
active February through October. Extended period suggests possible multiple or continuous in suitable climates.
Diet
Larvae feed on Myrica aspleniifolia, Myrica gale, and Myrica pensylvanica (bayberries). feeding habits not documented.
Host Associations
- Myrica aspleniifolia - larval plant
- Myrica gale - larval plant
- Myrica pensylvanica - larval plant
Ecological Role
Herbivore as larvae, specializing on Myrica . Role in broader dynamics not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dichomeris speciesMany share similar size and general wing pattern, but differ in specific arrangement, number, and scaling of discal and marginal dots. Close examination of forewing maculation required for identification.
More Details
Taxonomic note
Original description attributed to Walsingham in 1882; some sources cite Thomas de Grey (Walsingham's title) as describer.