Dichomeris stipendiaria
(Braun, 1925)
A small gelechiid described by Annette Frances Braun in 1925. have a wingspan of 17–18 mm and are active in mid-summer. Larvae feed on several of Asteraceae, including goldenrods and fleabanes. The is restricted to western North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dichomeris stipendiaria: //daɪˈkoʊmərɪs stɪˌpɛndiˈɛəriə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Small size (17–18 mm wingspan) and western North American distribution may help distinguish it from eastern Dichomeris . Specific diagnostic features are not documented; genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification within the .
Appearance
Wingspan 17–18 mm. No further morphological details are documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with plants in the Asteraceae : Solidago (goldenrods), Erigeron (fleabanes), and Aster eatonii. Specific types are not described.
Distribution
Western North America: southern British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, and Utah.
Seasonality
active in July and August.
Diet
Larvae feed on Solidago , Erigeron species, and Aster eatonii (Asteraceae). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Solidago - larval plant
- Erigeron - larval plant
- Aster eatonii - larval plant
Life Cycle
Larval stage feeds on Asteraceae plants. and details are not documented.
Ecological Role
Herbivore on native Asteraceae; specific functions are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Dichomeris speciesMany share small size and similar ; identification requires detailed examination or genitalia dissection.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by American lepidopterist Annette Frances Braun in 1925. Braun was a prolific describer of North American microlepidoptera.
Observation rarity
Only 2 observations recorded on iNaturalist as of source date, suggesting it may be genuinely uncommon or underreported.