Stigmella apicialbella
(Chambers, 1873) Newton et al., 1982
Stigmella apicialbella is a microlepidopteran in the , first described by Chambers in 1873 and later recombined by Newton et al. in 1982. This is among the smallest moths, with a wingspan of only 3.6–4.8 mm. It has been documented in the Nearctic region, specifically in Kentucky and Ohio, with additional records from Vermont. Like other members of its , it is presumed to be a leaf-mining species, though specific associations for this particular species have not been documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stigmella apicialbella: //stɪɡˈmɛlə əˌpɪsiˈælˌbɛlə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Stigmella by combination of small size (3.6–4.8 mm wingspan), geographic restriction to Kentucky and Ohio, and inferred marking suggested by species name. Definitive identification requires examination of or , as is standard for . Similar congeneric species in the eastern United States include Stigmella multispicata, which is associated with Siberian elm and has been recorded from multiple eastern states including New York.
Images
Appearance
Minute with wingspan 3.6–4.8 mm. As with other , likely have narrow, with reduced and long, slender . The epithet 'apicialbella' suggests a marking on the wing, though this is inferred from the name alone.
Distribution
Documented from Kentucky and Ohio, United States. Additional record from Vermont per GBIF. Nearctic distribution.
Behavior
Presumed leaf-mining as , based on -level trait of , though this has not been directly observed for this .
Similar Taxa
- Stigmella multispicataAlso a small found in eastern North America, but distinguished by association with Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila), broader distribution across ten US states and two Canadian provinces, and more recent invasion from Asia.
- Stigmella castaneaefoliellaAnother small Stigmella in eastern North America, but specialized on Castanea (chestnut) species and recorded from New York state.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Nepticula apicialbella by Chambers in 1873, later transferred to Stigmella by Newton et al. in 1982.