Geina periscelidactylus
(Fitch, 1854)
grape plume moth, Grape and Sheppard's Plume Moths
Geina periscelidactylus, commonly known as the , is a small in the found in eastern North America. have a wingspan of approximately 16 mm and are active during summer months. The are feeders on grape (Vitis) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus), constructing webs among young foliage.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Geina periscelidactylus: /ˈdʒiːnə ˌpɛrɪˌskɛlɪˈdæktɪləs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Geina by association and geographic range in eastern North America. The specific epithet refers to leg structure, though field identification to species level requires examination of or association with larval host plants. Similar to other in general appearance but smaller than many .
Images
Appearance
Small with wingspan approximately 16 mm. are deeply divided into feathery plumes, characteristic of the . have a delicate, slender body with muted coloration typical of the .
Habitat
Found in areas supporting plants: vineyards, woodland edges, and riparian zones with or Virginia creeper. Larval consists of young leaf growth and shoot tips of host plants.
Distribution
Eastern North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Distribution closely follows the range of cultivated and wild .
Seasonality
active from June to July. Single per year with larval development occurring in spring to early summer.
Diet
feed exclusively on (Vitis spp.) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus spp.). do not feed.
Host Associations
- Vitis - larval cultivated and wild
- Parthenocissus - larval Virginia creeper
Life Cycle
. laid on . web together young leaves and shoots while feeding. occurs within larval web or in debris. emerge in early summer.
Behavior
construct webs that bind young leaves and shoots together, feeding within this protected structure. This webbing distinguishes them from other -feeding .
Ecological Role
Minor in wild and Virginia creeper . Considered a minor pest in cultivated vineyards, though rarely causing significant .
Human Relevance
Minor agricultural pest on cultivated . Occasional presence in vineyards noted but generally not requiring intervention. Of interest to due to specialized associations.
Similar Taxa
- Other Geina speciesSimilar ; distinguished by , geographic range, and
- Other PterophoridaeShare divided structure; Geina periscelidactylus distinguished by small size and eastern North distribution
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The epithet has appeared as both 'periscelidactylus' and 'periscelidactyla' in literature; 'periscelidactylus' is the accepted form per Catalogue of Life.
Pest Status
Classified as a minor pest; larval webbing can affect appearance of foliage but economic impact is limited.