Acrocercops pnosmodiella
(Busck, 1902)
Marbleseed Leafminer
Acrocercops pnosmodiella, commonly known as the marbleseed leafminer, is a small in the Gracillariidae. The is known from a limited distribution in eastern Canada and the western United States. Its larvae are specialized leaf miners that feed exclusively on Onosmodium species, plants commonly called marbleseeds.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Acrocercops pnosmodiella: /ˌækrəˈsɜrkɒps ˌpnɒzməˈdiːɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
As a member of Gracillariidae, this is a small likely with narrow, wings typical of the . Specific diagnostic features for distinguishing A. pnosmodiella from other Acrocercops species are not documented in available sources. The leaf mines on Onosmodium plants provide the most reliable field indication of this species' presence.
Habitat
Associated with supporting Onosmodium , which occur in dry to mesic prairies, open woodlands, and rocky slopes.
Distribution
Recorded from Québec, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia in Canada; Colorado and California in the United States.
Diet
Larvae feed on Onosmodium carolinianum and Onosmodium molle. No other plants have been documented.
Host Associations
- Onosmodium carolinianum - larval
- Onosmodium molle - larval
Life Cycle
Larvae mine the leaves of plants. Specific details regarding placement, site, number of , and stage are not documented.
Behavior
Larvae create leaf mines within plant foliage. has not been described.
Ecological Role
As a , larvae may influence photosynthetic capacity of plants, though impacts are unknown. The functions as a herbivore in prairie and open woodland .
Human Relevance
No documented economic or conservation significance. The references the plant Onosmodium, known as marbleseed.
Similar Taxa
- Other Acrocercops speciesMany Gracillariidae leaf miners are morphologically similar and require plant association or genitalia examination for identification. Host specificity to Onosmodium distinguishes A. pnosmodiella from .
More Details
Nomenclature note
The specific epithet 'pnosmodiella' derives from the Onosmodium, with the 'p' apparently preserving the original Greek-derived spelling of the root.