Lacosoma

Grote, 1864

sack-bearer moths

Species Guides

3

Lacosoma is a of sack-bearer moths in the Mimallonidae, comprising at least 30 described . The genus name derives from Greek, referring to the hairy or woolly body characteristic of the group. Larvae construct and carry silken cases, giving rise to the . The genus includes both and species, with documented associations primarily on oak (Quercus) species.

- 7659 – Lacosoma chiridota – Scalloped Sack-bearer Moth (female) (27416508630) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.- 7659 – Lacosoma chiridota – Scalloped Sack-bearer Moth (male) (27620157431) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.- 7659 – Lacosoma chiridota – Scalloped Sack-bearer Moth (48043701648) by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lacosoma: /lɑːˈkoʊsəmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

may be distinguished from other Mimallonidae by the hairy or woolly body referenced in the etymology. Larvae are identifiable by their habit of constructing and carrying silken cases. Specific -level identification requires examination of genitalia or other detailed morphological features not summarized here.

Images

Habitat

Oak woodlands and associated forested environments; larvae specifically associated with oak (Quercus).

Distribution

North America; records include Arizona and Vermont, USA, with broader distribution across the continent implied by .

Seasonality

period varies by ; Lacosoma arizonicum active July–August. inferred for at least some species.

Diet

Larvae of at least some feed on Quercus (oak) species, specifically documented for Lacosoma arizonicum on Quercus hypoleucoides (silverleaf oak) and Quercus arizonica (Arizona white oak).

Host Associations

  • Quercus hypoleucoides - larval silverleaf oak
  • Quercus arizonica - larval Arizona white oak

Life Cycle

Larvae develop in spring/early summer, pupate in thin double-layered cocoons spun between leaves, with in mid-summer. At least some appear .

Behavior

Larvae are solitary defoliators, not gregarious. When disturbed, larvae drop from foliage on silk threads. Larvae construct and carry silken cases. At least some in the exhibit activity. Sexual has been specifically documented in Lacosoma chiridota.

Ecological Role

Oak defoliator; serves as for (Cotesia sp., Braconidae) and flies (Lespesia sp., Tachinidae).

Similar Taxa

  • Other Mimallonidae generaLacosoma larvae distinguished by silken case-carrying ; by hairy/woolly body characteristic per etymology.

More Details

Etymology

name derived from Greek, referring to the hairy or woolly body characteristic of the group.

Research gaps

Most detailed natural history information derives from single studies (L. arizonicum, L. chiridota); broader -level patterns require confirmation across additional species.

Sources and further reading