Mompha idaei

Zeller, 1839

Mompha idaei is a small in the Momphidae, described by Philipp Christoph Zeller in 1839. It has a Holarctic distribution, occurring across regions of North America and Europe. The is notable for its larval association with Epilobium (willowherb) species, where larvae develop in the roots.

Cyphophora idaei - Узкокрылая моль кипрейная (41000974332) by Ilia Ustyantsev from Russia. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.Mompha.idaei by James K. Lindsey. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.Mompha idaei 03 by Pekka Malinen, Luomus. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mompha idaei: //ˈmɒmfə ɪˈdaɪaɪ//

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Identification

have a wingspan of 18–22 mm. The can be distinguished from similar Mompha species by its size range and the specific plant association with Epilobium species.

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Habitat

Found in forest and associated environments where plants Epilobium angustifolium and Epilobium latifolium occur.

Distribution

Holarctic distribution. In North America: coast to coast in the forest, south to Colorado and Washington. In Europe: recorded from Belgium (Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Brabant province, Hainaut province).

Seasonality

are active from May to July.

Diet

Larvae feed in the roots of Epilobium angustifolium and Epilobium latifolium. diet not documented.

Host Associations

  • Epilobium angustifolium - larval larvae live in roots
  • Epilobium latifolium - larval larvae live in roots

Life Cycle

Larvae develop in the roots of plants. Specific details of and stages not documented.

Ecological Role

Root-feeding larvae may influence plant vigor. Specific ecological impacts not documented.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Mompha speciesSimilar size and appearance; distinguished by plant specificity and genitalia examination.

More Details

Nomenclatural note

Originally described as Elachista idaei by Zeller in 1839, later transferred to Mompha.

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Sources and further reading