Bucculatrix ivella
Busck, 1900
groundsel leaf-perforator moth, groundsel leaf-mining moth
Bucculatrix ivella is a small in the , first described by August Busck in 1900. to North America, it has been to Queensland, Australia. The is known for its larval feeding on Baccharis species, earning it the 'groundsel leaf-perforator moth' or 'groundsel leaf-mining moth'.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bucculatrix ivella: //bʊk.jʊˈlæ.trɪks ɪˈvɛl.lə//
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Identification
are small typical of the Bucculatrix, with narrow and a slender body. The genus can be distinguished from other Gracillarioidea by the presence of raised tufts on the . -level identification requires examination of or . create characteristic mines in leaves of Baccharis .
Habitat
Associated with supporting its plants Baccharis halimifolia and Baccharis neglecta, which include coastal areas, disturbed sites, and open woodlands in its range.
Distribution
to North America. to Queensland, Australia, where it has established .
Diet
feed on Baccharis halimifolia and Baccharis neglecta (Asteraceae). feeding habits are unknown.
Host Associations
- Baccharis halimifolia - larval
- Baccharis neglecta - larval
Behavior
are , creating tunnels within leaf tissue of plants. The 'leaf-perforator' suggests late larvae may exit mines to feed externally, a observed in some .
Similar Taxa
- Other Bucculatrix speciesNumerous occur in North America; many require dissection or molecular analysis for reliable identification. B. ivella is distinguished by association with Baccharis and specific genitalic characters.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by August Busck in 1900. The epithet 'ivella' derivation is not documented in available sources.
Introduction to Australia
The has been to Queensland, Australia, presumably with its plants Baccharis species, which are also introduced in that region.