Pseudochelaria
Dietz, 1900
Species Guides
5Pseudochelaria is a of small in the Gelechiidae, established by Dietz in 1900. The genus contains five described distributed in North America. Species within this genus appear to be associated with specific plants in the Ericaceae family, including manzanita and madrone.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pseudochelaria: //ˌsjuːdoʊkəˈlɛəriə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of Pseudochelaria can be distinguished from other Gelechiidae by genitalia and forewing pattern elements. The genus is closely related to Chelaria but differs in genitalic structure. -level identification requires examination of genitalia and often relies on plant association and geographic distribution.
Images
Distribution
North America, with records from the United States including Vermont and western states. show regional patterns, with some restricted to western North America.
Host Associations
- Arbutus - larval P. arbutina associated with madrone
- Arctostaphylos - larval P. manzanitae associated with manzanita
Similar Taxa
- ChelariaClosely related in Gelechiidae; Pseudochelaria distinguished by genitalic
More Details
Etymology
The name Pseudochelaria reflects its similarity to the genus Chelaria, with the prefix 'pseudo-' indicating this close relationship.
Species diversity
The contains five described : P. arbutina, P. manzanitae, P. pennsylvanica, P. scabrella, and P. walsinghami. Several species are named after their plants or in honor of entomologists.