Papaipema cerussata
Grote, 1864
ironweed borer moth
Papaipema cerussata, commonly known as the ironweed borer , is a found in eastern North America. The species is a stem-borer , with that feed internally on the stems of Vernonia noveboracensis. It has been documented across seventeen states from Maine to Georgia. The specific epithet 'cerussata' refers to the lead- coloration characteristic of this species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Papaipema cerussata: /pəˌpaɪˈpiːmə ˌsɛrʊˈseɪtə/
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Identification
The specific epithet 'cerussata' (meaning lead-) suggests distinctive pale coloration that may aid in identification. As a member of the Papaipema, it likely exhibits the slender body form and relatively plain typical of stem-boring . Definitive identification may require examination of or larval association with Vernonia noveboracensis.
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Habitat
Associated with supporting its Vernonia noveboracensis (New York ironweed), which typically occurs in moist meadows, wet fields, stream banks, and woodland edges in eastern North America.
Distribution
Eastern North America: recorded from Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Diet
feed on Vernonia noveboracensis (New York ironweed), boring into stems. feeding habits are not documented.
Host Associations
- Vernonia noveboracensis - larval bore into stems
Behavior
are stem-borers, feeding internally within the stems of the . This concealed feeding habit is characteristic of the Papaipema.
Ecological Role
As a stem-borer, may influence architecture and resource allocation in Vernonia noveboracensis . May serve as for and other .
Human Relevance
No documented economic or agricultural significance. Of potential interest to and biologists - relationships.
Similar Taxa
- Papaipema speciesOther Papaipema are also stem-borers with similar ; differentiation requires examination of or association. P. cerussata is distinguished by its specific association with Vernonia noveboracensis and likely by genitalic characters.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described by Grote in 1864 as Gortyna cerussata, later transferred to Papaipema. The basionym reflects early uncertainty in .