Apodrepanulatrix liberaria
(Walker, 1860)
New Jersey tea inchworm, Barrens Carpet
A small geometrid with a wingspan of 25–35 mm, found in eastern North America. The is notable for its specialized larval diet on New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) and its endangered status in Massachusetts and Connecticut. are active during the growing season, with larvae feeding on a single plant .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apodrepanulatrix liberaria: /ˌæpoʊˌdrɛpəˈnjuːlətrɪks laɪˈbɛriə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The wingspan of 25–35 mm distinguishes it from larger geometrid moths. The 'New Jersey tea inchworm' and association with Ceanothus americanus plants provides ecological context for identification. Specific wing pattern differences from not documented.
Habitat
Associated with supporting Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey tea), which occurs in dry barrens, sandy soils, and open woodlands. The alternative 'Barrens Carpet' suggests affinity for barrens .
Distribution
Eastern North America: from extreme southern Quebec and southern Ontario southward to northern Florida and Mississippi. State-listed as endangered in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Seasonality
activity period not explicitly documented; inferred to align with typical temperate during growing season based on larval plant availability.
Diet
Larvae feed exclusively on Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey tea). feeding habits not documented.
Host Associations
- Ceanothus americanus - larval sole documented plant
Life Cycle
Complete with , larval, pupal, and stages. Larvae are inchworms (looper caterpillars) characteristic of Geometridae. Specific timing of developmental stages not documented.
Behavior
Larvae exhibit typical geometrid looping locomotion. patterns not documented.
Ecological Role
Larval herbivore specialized on Ceanothus americanus; contributes to nutrient cycling in barrens and open woodland . Pollination role of not documented.
Human Relevance
Subject to conservation concern: listed as endangered in Massachusetts and Connecticut. No documented economic importance.
Similar Taxa
- Other Apodrepanulatrix species likely share general ; specific distinguishing features not documented in sources.
- Other small GeometridaeSimilar size and inchworm larvae; plant specificity and geographic range help distinguish.
More Details
Conservation Status
State-listed as endangered in Massachusetts and Connecticut, indicating significant decline or loss in these portions of its range.
Nomenclature
Originally described as Apicia liberaria by Francis Walker in 1860; later transferred to Apodrepanulatrix.