Chionodes braunella
(Keifer, 1931)
Chionodes braunella is a small in the Gelechiidae, first described by Keifer in 1931. The is notable for its specialized larval diet on lupines and other leguminous plants across western North America. Its distribution spans from western Canada through the western United States to the northeastern part of the continent.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chionodes braunella: //kiˈoʊnoʊˌdiːz braʊˈnɛl.lə//
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Identification
As a member of the Chionodes, this would be recognized by the typical gelechiid : small size, narrow wings with pointed apices, and often mottled or streaked wing patterns. Specific identification to C. braunella requires examination of genitalia or association with larval plants, as visual separation from is difficult.
Habitat
Associated with supporting its larval plants, including coastal scrub, chaparral, montane meadows, and open woodlands where lupines and related legumes grow.
Distribution
North America: Alberta and British Columbia (Canada); Colorado, Arizona, California, Washington, Maine (USA); southern Ontario (Canada).
Diet
Larvae feed on: Lupinus albifrons, Lupinus arboreus, Lupinus chamissionis, Lupinus excubitus, Lupinus ornatus, Lupinus peirsonii, Lupinus varicolor, Lotus scoparius, Trifolium eriocephalum, Trifolium wormskioldii, Vicia americana, Lathyrus vestitus, Lathyrus sulphureus, and Gaylussacia . feeding habits unknown.
Host Associations
- Lupinus albifrons - larval
- Lupinus arboreus - larval
- Lupinus chamissionis - larval
- Lupinus excubitus - larval
- Lupinus ornatus - larval
- Lupinus peirsonii - larval
- Lupinus varicolor - larval
- Lotus scoparius - larval
- Trifolium eriocephalum - larval
- Trifolium wormskioldii - larval
- Vicia americana - larval
- Lathyrus vestitus - larval
- Lathyrus sulphureus - larval
- Gaylussacia - larval not specified
Ecological Role
Larval herbivore on leguminous plants; may influence seed production or plant in .
Similar Taxa
- Other Chionodes speciesMany share similar size, wing shape, and coloration; reliable separation requires genitalic dissection or plant association.
- Other Gelechiidae-level characters (small size, narrow pointed wings, mottled patterns) overlap broadly; -level identification requires detailed examination.