Exoteleia californica

(Busck, 1907)

Exoteleia californica is a small gelechiid to California, with a wingspan of approximately 15 mm. The is characterized by distinctive wing patterning featuring silvery white forewings with black-edged ochreous costal streaks and raised black tufts. Larvae feed on Quercus chrysolepis (canyon live oak), establishing a specific relationship with this oak species.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Exoteleia californica: //ˌɛksoʊˈtɛliə ˌkælɪˈfɔrnɪkə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other Exoteleia by the combination of six raised black tufts in two longitudinal rows on the forewing, three ochreous costal streaks with black edging, and the silvery white ground color with pure white area. The wing pattern is diagnostic within the ; the raised scale tufts are particularly conspicuous and not reported for all . Similar gelechiid moths lack this specific arrangement of costal streaks and scale tufts.

Appearance

Wingspan approximately 15 mm. Forewings silvery white with extreme base of black. Three ochreous oblique costal streaks edged with black: one indistinct near base, one pronounced at middle of wing, and one at third running across wing. Six conspicuous tufts of raised black scales arranged in two longitudinal rows at middle of wing. part of wing pure white; apical portion overlaid with ochreous and black scales. Narrow angulated white fascia visible between apical costal streak and apical portion. Hindwings light fuscous.

Habitat

Associated with oak woodland supporting the plant Quercus chrysolepis (canyon live oak). Specific microhabitat requirements for unknown; larvae occur on foliage of host oak.

Distribution

to California, United States. Recorded from localities within the state; precise range boundaries undetermined.

Diet

Larvae feed on Quercus chrysolepis (canyon live oak). feeding habits unknown.

Host Associations

Quercus chrysolepis - larval plantcanyon live oak

Ecological Role

Herbivore as larva, specializing on canyon live oak. Specific ecological functions otherwise undetermined.

Similar Taxa

Other Exoteleia speciesSimilar size and general gelechiid ; distinguished by wing pattern elements including number and arrangement of raised tufts and costal streaks

More Details

Taxonomic history

Described by Busck in 1907. Placement in tribe Litini within Gelechiinae reflects current classification of the .