Chionodes abitus
Hodges, 1999
Chionodes abitus is a small in the Gelechiidae, described by Hodges in 1999. It occurs in western North America from California north to British Columbia and Saskatchewan. The is associated with willow (Salix) .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chionodes abitus: /ˈkaɪ.əˌnoʊdiːz ˈæbɪtəs/
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Habitat
Associated with willow (Salix) ; specific habitat details beyond plant relationship are not documented.
Distribution
Western North America: California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, southwestern Saskatchewan, and southern British Columbia. GBIF records also indicate presence in Alberta.
Diet
Larvae feed on Salix , including Salix discolor (pussy willow). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Salix discolor - larval food plantpussy willow
- Salix - larval food plant-level association
Similar Taxa
- Other Chionodes speciesChionodes is a large with many similar-appearing ; accurate identification requires examination of genitalia or molecular data.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Ronald W. Hodges in 1999. The specific epithet 'abitus' is Latin for 'departure' or 'exit', though the etymological significance is not documented.
Observation frequency
Relatively rarely recorded on iNaturalist with only 6 observations as of source date, suggesting either genuine rarity or underdetection due to small size and lack of distinctive field marks.