Chionodes mariona
(Heinrich, 1921)
Chionodes mariona is a small gelechiid with a wingspan of 9–10 mm, distributed across the southwestern United States and Mexico. are distinguished by black forewings marked with two cream-colored spots. The larvae are specialized herbivores feeding on plants in the mallow (Malvaceae), including Abutilon, Malvastrum, Sida, and Wissadula . Larval development produces distinctive yellowish-white caterpillars with prominent red blotches.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chionodes mariona: /ˈkaɪəˌnoʊdiːz məˈraɪənə/
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Identification
are readily identified by the combination of small size, black forewings, and the specific pattern of two cream-colored spots—one costal and triangular, one and irregular. The larval color pattern of yellowish white with red blotches is distinctive among gelechiid larvae on Malvaceae .
Habitat
Associated with supporting its larval plants in the mallow , including dry and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, southern Texas, and Mexico in North America.
Diet
Larvae feed on Abutilon incanum, Abutilon berlandieri, Malvastrum coromandelianum and other Malvastrum , Sida species, and Wissadula species. feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Abutilon incanum - larval food plant
- Abutilon berlandieri - larval food plant
- Malvastrum coromandelianum - larval food plant
- Malvastrum - larval food plant-level association
- Sida - larval food plant-level association
- Wissadula - larval food plant-level association
Life Cycle
Larval stage feeds externally on plant foliage. Full-grown larvae reach 6.5–7 mm. details are not documented.
Ecological Role
Herbivore specializing on Malvaceae; larval feeding may influence plant in native .
Similar Taxa
- Other Chionodes speciesMany Chionodes have dark forewings with pale markings, but C. mariona is distinguished by the specific arrangement and shape of its two cream spots—triangular costal dash and irregular spot—combined with its southwestern distribution and Malvaceae associations.