Friseria cockerelli

(Busck, 1903)

mesquite webworm moth, mesquite webworm

Friseria cockerelli is a small in the Gelechiidae, commonly known as the mesquite webworm moth. Its larvae are web-forming caterpillars that feed on mesquite (Prosopis spp.) and construct silk webs on plants. The occurs in Mexico and the southern United States, with active primarily from April to September.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Friseria cockerelli: /friːˈsɛɹ.iə ˌkɑːkəˈɹɛli/

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Identification

Distinguished from similar Gelechiidae by combination of light yellowish-brown forewings with complex dark markings including large patch near base, paired costal spots, and characteristic longitudinal streaks interrupted by perpendicular black streak at end of . Hindwings yellowish-fuscous.

Habitat

Mesquite-dominated areas; larvae construct silk webs on mesquite plants.

Distribution

Mexico and southern United States: recorded from Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, California, Oklahoma, and Nevada.

Seasonality

mostly on wing from April to September.

Diet

Larvae feed on Prosopis (mesquite).

Host Associations

  • Prosopis spp. - larval food plantmesquite

Behavior

Larvae construct silk webs on plants; web-building is characteristic of this .

Ecological Role

Herbivore on mesquite; larval web-building may provide some shelter for other small arthropods.

Human Relevance

Minor pest of mesquite; no significant economic impact reported.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Friseria speciesSimilar size and wing pattern; F. cockerelli distinguished by specific forewing markings including large patch and characteristic longitudinal streaks with perpendicular interruption
  • Other Gelechiidae on ProsopisSimilar association; F. cockerelli identified by distinctive wing pattern and web-building larval

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