Cameraria betulivora
(Walsingham, 1891)
Cameraria betulivora is a small leaf-mining in the Gracillariidae. have a wingspan of approximately 7 mm. The is restricted to eastern North America, where its larvae feed exclusively on Betula (birch) species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cameraria betulivora: //ˌkæmɛˈrɛɹiə bɛˌtjuːlɪˈvoʊɹə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Cameraria by association with Betula plants and geographic restriction to eastern North America. Larval mines on birch leaves are diagnostic; require genitalia examination or molecular analysis for definitive identification to species.
Habitat
Deciduous forests and woodlands where birch occur. Found in both and temperate forest zones.
Distribution
Eastern North America: Ontario and Quebec (Canada); Maine and North Carolina (United States).
Diet
Larvae feed on Betula alleghaniensis (yellow birch), Betula lenta (black birch), Betula lutea (syn. B. alleghaniensis), Betula papyrifera (paper birch), and Betula populifolia (gray birch).
Host Associations
- Betula alleghaniensis - larval food plant
- Betula lenta - larval food plant
- Betula lutea - larval food plant; synonym of B. alleghaniensis
- Betula papyrifera - larval food plant
- Betula populifolia - larval food plant
Life Cycle
Larvae mine leaves of birch . occurs within the mine or in soil.
Behavior
Larvae create blotch or serpentine mines in birch leaves, feeding between epidermal layers.
Ecological Role
Herbivore; on birch . may be influenced by birch abundance and seasonal leaf availability.
Human Relevance
Minor economic significance; occasionally noticed as a on ornamental birch trees.
Similar Taxa
- Other Cameraria speciesMany Cameraria are leaf miners on different (e.g., oak, maple, chestnut); host plant association is primary distinguishing feature.
More Details
Original description
First described as Lithocolletis betulivora by Walsingham in 1891, later transferred to Cameraria.