Chilocampyla
Busck, 1900
Chilocampyla is a of minute in the , first described by August Busck in 1900. The genus contains two described : Chilocampyla dyariella (1900) and Chilocampyla psidiella (1934). As members of Gracillariidae, these moths likely possess the family characteristic of larval leaf-mining , though specific biology for Chilocampyla species remains poorly documented. The genus is classified within the Acrocercopinae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chilocampyla: //ˌkɪloʊˈkæmpɪlə//
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Identification
Chilocampyla can be distinguished from other Acrocercopinae by genitalic characters, particularly male valvae and female signum structures. The genus is characterized by relatively broad with distinct patterns. Specific external morphological features distinguishing Chilocampyla from closely related genera such as Acrocercops require microscopic examination.
Distribution
The occurs in the Neotropical region. Chilocampyla dyariella is known from the southern United States (Florida, Texas) and Mexico. Chilocampyla psidiella has been recorded from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Host Associations
- Psidium guajava - larval Chilocampyla psidiella has been recorded feeding on guava (Myrtaceae)
- Myrtaceae - larval Chilocampyla dyariella associated with Myrtaceae; specific unconfirmed
Human Relevance
Chilocampyla psidiella has been noted as a minor pest of guava (Psidium guajava) in the Caribbean region, with mining leaves of cultivated trees.
Similar Taxa
- AcrocercopsBoth belong to Acrocercopinae and share similar patterns and leaf-mining habits; distinguished by genitalic and details
- PhyllocnistisSuperficially similar small with leaf-mining ; Phyllocnistis larvae produce distinctive serpentine mines with visible trails, whereas Chilocampyla mine differs
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by August Busck in 1900 with Chilocampyla dyariella as the . The second species, C. psidiella, was added by Busck in 1934 based on specimens from Puerto Rico. The genus has remained small and stable in composition, with no additional species described since 1934.
Larval biology
While larval leaf-mining is inferred from placement in , the specific mine and larval habits of Chilocampyla have not been formally described in published literature.