Caloptilia packardella
(Chambers, 1872)
Caloptilia packardella is a small leaf-mining in the Gracillariidae. The is known from Quebec, Canada, and several northeastern and midwestern U.S. states. Its larvae feed on maple species (Acer), creating blotch mines in leaves.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caloptilia packardella: //ˌkæloʊpˈtɪliə ˌpækɚˈdɛlə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Caloptilia by geographic range and plant association with Acer species. Specific diagnostic features for separating C. packardella from are not documented in available sources. are small with narrow wings typical of the .
Images
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 11 mm. Typical of Caloptilia, have narrow wings often held roof-like over the body at rest. Coloration details are not well documented in available sources.
Habitat
Associated with maple (Acer) trees. Specific preferences beyond host plant presence are not documented.
Distribution
Quebec, Canada; United States: Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, Maine, Vermont, Illinois. GBIF records also indicate New Brunswick and Ontario in Canada, and Atlantic States region in the U.S.
Seasonality
At least two per year in Illinois. Specific periods are not documented in available sources.
Diet
Larvae feed on Acer , specifically Acer platanoides (Norway maple), Acer saccharum (sugar maple), and Acer saccharinum (silver maple). feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Acer platanoides - larval larvae mine leaves
- Acer saccharum - larval larvae mine leaves
- Acer saccharinum - larval larvae mine leaves
Life Cycle
Larvae are leaf miners, creating blotch mines in maple leaves. At least two per year occur in Illinois. and details are not documented in available sources.
Behavior
Larvae mine leaves of maples, creating blotch-type mines. is not documented beyond attraction to light (inferred from traits and observation context in source material).
Ecological Role
As a , larvae may affect photosynthetic capacity of maple leaves. Specific ecological impacts are not quantified in available sources.
Human Relevance
Not documented as an economically significant pest. Norway maple (Acer platanoides), one , is an introduced tree in North America.
Similar Taxa
- Other Caloptilia speciesMany Caloptilia are similar in size and general appearance; specific diagnostic features for C. packardella are not well documented
More Details
Taxonomic note
described by Chambers in 1872. The Caloptilia contains numerous similar species, many of which require dissection or molecular analysis for definitive identification.