Chionodes thoraceochrella
(Chambers, 1872)
Chionodes thoraceochrella is a small gelechiid distributed across much of North America. The is recognized by its distinctive wing pattern featuring dark brown and black scaling on a whitish fuscous ground color, with characteristic longitudinal streaks and an angulated white fascia near the wing apex. Larvae are known to feed on several oak species and chokecherry.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chionodes thoraceochrella: //ˌkaɪɔˈnoʊdiːz θɔˌraɪsiˈoʊkrɛlə//
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Chionodes by the combination of: nearly black costal edge, paired oblique black dashes on the disc, and the outwardly angulated white fascia at the third of the forewing. The dark scaling and specific arrangement of pale and dark markings separate it from with otherwise similar ground color.
Habitat
Associated with oak-dominated forests and woodlands; presence tied to plant availability (Quercus alba, Q. bicolor, Q. rubra) and Prunus virginiana in mixed hardwood settings.
Distribution
North America: Nova Scotia and southern Quebec south to Georgia, west to North Dakota, Mississippi, Texas; also recorded from Washington, California, Utah, and Arizona.
Diet
Larvae feed on Quercus alba, Quercus bicolor, Quercus rubra, and Prunus virginiana. feeding habits not documented.
Host Associations
- Quercus alba - larval plant
- Quercus bicolor - larval plant
- Quercus rubra - larval plant
- Prunus virginiana - larval plant
Ecological Role
Larval herbivore on oak and cherry ; specific functions not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Chionodes speciesMany share similar size, ground color, and dark scaling; C. thoraceochrella distinguished by specific pattern elements (paired discal dashes, angulated fascia, black costal edge)