Chionodes gilvomaculella

Distinguished from similar Chionodes species by the combination of yellowish costal spots and streaks on dark brownish forewings, particularly the paired yellowish streaks near the wing tip on both costa and inner margin. The diffuse extension of the middle costal spot to the fold and the associated blackish-brown spot at the fold provide additional diagnostic characters. Specific identification may require dissection and examination of genitalia.

A small gelechiid moth with dark brownish forewings. The forewings bear an indistinct yellowish spot on the costa near the base and another of the same color on the middle of the costa, extending diffusely to the fold where a blackish-brown spot is present. A yellowish streak occurs on the costa near the wing tip, with a matching streak on the inner margin. The hindwings are dark greyish.

Associated with oak-dominated forests and woodlands, reflecting its larval host relationship with Quercus species.

North America: recorded from Nova Scotia and southern Ontario (Canada) south to West Virginia and Ohio (United States).

Larvae feed on Quercus (oak) species.

• Quercus - larval hostspecific oak species not documented

As a leaf-feeding larva on oaks, contributes to nutrient cycling and serves as a food source for parasitoids and predators.

• Other Chionodes speciesMany Chionodes species share similar size, wing pattern elements, and oak-feeding habits; precise identification requires examination of genitalia and detailed wing pattern analysis

• oak-associated
• leaf-miner or feeder
• nearctic

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life