Friseria acaciella
(Busck, 1906)
Friseria acaciella is a small gelechiid with a wingspan of approximately 13 mm. The is distinguished by its dark purple forewings with a distinctive yellowish-white quadrangular spot and contrasting lighter apex. It occurs in Mexico and the southern United States, with larvae that feed specifically on Acacia farnesiana.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Friseria acaciella: /friˈsɛr.i.a a.kaˈsi.el.la/
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Identification
The combination of small size (13 mm wingspan), dark purple forewings with a large yellowish-white quadrangular spot at the basal third, and the faint transverse whitish line at the third distinguishes this from other Friseria. The specific larval association with Acacia farnesiana provides additional diagnostic context where known.
Habitat
Associated with supporting Acacia farnesiana, its larval plant. This occurs in regions where sweet acacia grows, including arid and semi-arid environments in the southern United States and Mexico.
Distribution
Mexico and the southern United States. Recorded from Texas and Louisiana in the United States.
Diet
Larvae feed on Acacia farnesiana (sweet acacia). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Acacia farnesiana - larval food plantLarvae feed on this
Life Cycle
Complete with larval stage feeding on Acacia farnesiana. Specific details of and timing are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Friseria speciesSimilar small size and general gelechiid ; distinguished by specific wing pattern elements including the quadrangular yellowish-white spot and transverse whitish line
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet 'acaciella' refers to the larval plant Acacia.