Caloptilia alnicolella
(Chambers, 1875)
Caloptilia alnicolella is a small in the Gracillariidae, a group known for leaf-mining larvae. The is associated with alder trees (Alnus), on which its larvae develop as leaf miners. It has been recorded from eastern Canada and parts of the United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caloptilia alnicolella: //ˌkæ.ləpˈtɪ.li.ə ˌæl.nɪ.kəˈlɛ.lə//
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Habitat
Associated with alder trees (Alnus ), indicating riparian or wetland-edge environments where these plants occur.
Distribution
Recorded from Canada (Quebec, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island) and the United States (Colorado, Maine).
Diet
Larvae feed on Alnus (alders).
Host Associations
- Alnus - larval food plantLarvae mine leaves of alder
Life Cycle
Larvae mine leaves of their plant. The mine begins as a small, tentiform mine on the underside of the leaf. Later in development, the larva rolls the tip of a leaf downward.
Behavior
are attracted to ultraviolet light sources, as has been observed for the Caloptilia.
Similar Taxa
- Caloptilia blandellaAnother Caloptilia that feeds on alder; specific distinguishing features require detailed examination
More Details
Taxonomic note
Originally described as Lithocolletis alnicolella by Chambers in 1875, later transferred to Caloptilia.