Caloptilia murtfeldtella
(Busck, 1904)
Caloptilia murtfeldtella is a small gracillariid known for its distinctive larval biology. The creates stem on Penstemon plants, with developing inside individual galls before emerging through a specially prepared epidermal window. overwinter and have been recorded across multiple U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The species was named in honor of naturalist Mary Murtfeldt, who collected the .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caloptilia murtfeldtella: /kæˌlɒpˈtɪliə ˌmɜrtˌfɛldˈtɛlə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Identification relies on association with and geographic distribution. The stem gall —low on the stem, with a circular epidermal window prepared by the —is characteristic. are small (18 mm wingspan) gracillariid ; precise diagnostic features for separating from are not documented in available sources. Larval presence confirmed by dissecting galls or observing the characteristic exit window.
Images
Habitat
Associated with Penstemon plants in open . Specific habitat requirements for not documented.
Distribution
United States: Missouri, Washington, California, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio. Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Saskatchewan.
Seasonality
active in summer; present in stems during growing season. overwinters in the adult stage.
Diet
feed on Penstemon hirsutus, Penstemon laevigatus, and Penstemon peckii (Plantaginaceae). feeding habits unknown.
Host Associations
- Penstemon hirsutus - larval create stem
- Penstemon laevigatus - larval create stem
- Penstemon peckii - larval create stem
Life Cycle
laid on stems. induce stem and develop inside; one larva per gall regardless of gall number per stem. Full-grown larva chews exit tunnel through gall wall, leaving epidermal window, then spins anchored to gall base with upper end surrounding window. emerges through window. Overwinters as adult.
Behavior
are -formers with solitary occupancy of galls despite potential for multiple galls per stem. Larvae prepare precise exit architecture before . overwinter, suggesting late-season activity and spring pattern.
Ecological Role
As a -former, modifies stem tissue, potentially affecting plant growth and resource allocation. Specific ecological impacts not quantified.
Human Relevance
Named after naturalist Mary Murtfeldt, recognizing her contributions to entomological specimen collection. No economic importance documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Caloptilia speciesMany Caloptilia are rather than -formers; C. murtfeldtella distinguished by stem gall biology on Penstemon
- Other gracillariid gall-formers specificity and position (low on stem) with characteristic exit window distinguish this
More Details
Etymology
epithet honors Mary Murtfeldt (1839-1913), naturalist and who collected the specimens used by August Busck for the original description in 1904.
Gall characteristics
occur low on Penstemon stems. The 's preparation of an exit window—chewing through almost the entire gall wall while preserving the outer as a visible circular mark—is a distinctive behavioral trait.